BOOTH ONE - Celebrating Culture and Conversationhttps://booth-one.com
Adventures in the art of Lively ConversationFri, 13 Sep 2019 19:42:21 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=5.2.3Host Gary Zabinski and co-host Frank Tourangau engage in the art of lively conversation from the vantage point of BOOTH ONE (formerly known as TalkSports).<br />
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In the heyday of the Pump Room at the Ambassador East Hotel here in Chicago, Booth One was the most sought after seat in the house, as the privileged celebrities and other luminaries who were seated there could be seen from the lobby, the bar and the rest of the room. A place to see and to be seen. Sadly, the original Booth One is now lost to the ages, but still resides as a display in the lobby of the UP Club at the Second City.<br />
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On our BOOTH ONE podcast, we attempt to revive that feeling of being in the best seat in the house by seeking out and describing our Booth One experiences for our listeners. We’ll be talking about our recent Booth One brushes with famous guests, first class events, and behind-the-scenes encounters. We’ll also continue to have Booth One conversations covering a variety of topics, both current and esoteric. We’ll send Frank and Gary to some of the more exotic places and events in this great metropolis and beyond, looking for Booth One-type experiences to share with you.<br />
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Anything is fair game on BOOTH ONE, reflective of the kinds of conversations that must have taken place in the legendary Pump Room’s first-class seating. Be a fly on the wall as Gary and Frank attempt to recreate the magic, mystery and mischief of the BOOTH ONE experience for your amusement and edification!<br />
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Send us your Booth One experiences and we’ll share them with our listeners on the podcast. Your reservation to BOOTH ONE is waiting!Gary Zabinski, Frank TourangeauGary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeaubetsyingra@aol.combetsyingra@aol.com (Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau)Adventures in the art of lively conversationBOOTH ONE - Celebrating Culture and Conversationhttps://booth-one.com/wp-content/uploads/powerpress/BoothOne-iTunes1400.jpghttps://booth-one.com
Game Changers – Michael and Mona Heath – Episode 100!https://booth-one.com/2019/09/game-changers-michael-and-mona-heath-episode-100/
Thu, 12 Sep 2019 19:00:45 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3805We chose Michael and Mona Heath for our 100th episode because they are the most amazing angels to the Chicago theatre community. With backgrounds in applied mathematics and computer science, they have dedicated their time, energy, and savings to supporting Chicago theatre artists. Last year, they paid full price to see 336 shows! And that is while living part time in Champaign/Urbana. Not to mention building the mainstage theatre, dressing rooms, and lounge at The Den Theatre. They are the production sponsors of so much important work, including "His Shadow" at 16th Street Theatre, which opens tonight!
So much more to say, but want to get this published today. Will add info and photos soon!We chose Michael and Mona Heath for our 100th episode because they are the most amazing angels to the Chicago theatre community. With backgrounds in applied mathematics and computer science, they have dedicated their time, energy, and savings to supporting Chicago theatre artists. Last year, they paid full price to see 336 shows! And that is while living part time in Champaign/Urbana. Not to mention building the mainstage theatre, dressing rooms, and lounge at The Den Theatre. They are the production sponsors of so much important work, including “His Shadow” at 16th Street Theatre, which opens tonight!

So much more to say, but want to get this published today. Will add info and photos soon!

]]>We chose Michael and Mona Heath for our 100th episode because they are the most amazing angels to the Chicago theatre community. With backgrounds in applied mathematics and computer science, they have dedicated their time, energy,
We chose Michael and Mona Heath for our 100th episode because they are the most amazing angels to the Chicago theatre community. With backgrounds in applied mathematics and computer science, they have dedicated their time, energy, and savings to supporting Chicago theatre artists. Last year, they paid full price to see 336 shows! And that is while living part time in Champaign/Urbana. Not to mention building the mainstage theatre, dressing rooms, and lounge at The Den Theatre. They are the production sponsors of so much important work, including "His Shadow" at 16th Street Theatre, which opens tonight!

So much more to say, but want to get this published today. Will add info and photos soon!]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau51:27Our Favorite (and First) Costume Designer – Christine Pascual – Episode 99https://booth-one.com/2019/09/our-favorite-and-first-costume-designer-christine-pascual-episode-99/
Sun, 01 Sep 2019 19:43:55 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3770Christine has created beautiful designs for many of our all-time favorite productions! Check out this list of her recent projects! From Dutch Masters to La Ruta to East Texas Hot Links and To Catch a Fish. All great, great shows!
The costumes we think were the most breathtaking were for The Total Bent. Robert Cornelius's suits (and shoes!) were just perfect, as were all the other costumes, especially the cape she made for Gilbert Domally's character.
Much more to say. Want to publish the audio of this great interview and will update these show notes very son!Christine has created beautiful designs for many of our all-time favorite productions! Check out this list of her recent projects! From Dutch Masters to La Ruta to East Texas Hot Links and To Catch a Fish. All great, great shows!

The costumes we think were the most breathtaking were for The Total Bent. Robert Cornelius’s suits (and shoes!) were just perfect, as were all the other costumes, especially the cape she made for Gilbert Domally’s character.

Much more to say. Want to publish the audio of this great interview and will update these show notes very son!

]]>Christine has created beautiful designs for many of our all-time favorite productions! Check out this list of her recent projects! From Dutch Masters to La Ruta to East Texas Hot Links and To Catch a Fish. All great, great shows! - Christine has created beautiful designs for many of our all-time favorite productions! Check out this list of her recent projects! From Dutch Masters to La Ruta to East Texas Hot Links and To Catch a Fish. All great, great shows!

The costumes we think were the most breathtaking were for The Total Bent. Robert Cornelius's suits (and shoes!) were just perfect, as were all the other costumes, especially the cape she made for Gilbert Domally's character.

Much more to say. Want to publish the audio of this great interview and will update these show notes very son!]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau55:15“Astonish Me” – Theatre Historian & Critic Jonathan Abarbanel – Episode 98https://booth-one.com/2019/07/astonish-me-jonathan-abarbanel-theatre-historian-critic-teacher/
Tue, 16 Jul 2019 03:09:52 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3744Jonathan Abarbanel, our first theatre critic guest, comes with great perspective not just as a theatre historian and scholar but also as an artist. He's been an actor, dramaturg, playwright, and producer, so he knows what it means and takes to bring work to the stage. He's the immediate past president of the American Theatre Critics Association. He's reviewed Chicago theatre for 50 years and continues as a great critic for the Windy City Times and Footlights magazine.
He and Kerry Reid are the "Dueling Critics" on The Arts Section on WDCB public radio. This marvelous and nuanced conversation about Isaac Gomez's play, La Ruta, is a great example of their collaboration and a chance to hear some longer form criticism from two real pros.
Frank tells us about his trip to the Dalmation Coast, including a visit to the "Museum of Broken Relationships" in Zagreb. Sounds like a must-see.
Jonathan was an early member of the off-loop theatre movement and was part of exciting and important developments like working with Del Close on the Harold.
He briefly worked as a copywriter and producer in advertising an came up with an iconic slogan "America spells cheese, K-R-A-F-T"!
Another claim to fame was his appearance on the Antique Road Show with original artist boards of Winsor McCay's comic strip, "Little Nemo in Slumberland." Winsor invented animated cartoons with a character called "Gertie the Dinosaur". Jonathan was working summer stock and came across the boards in a barn. He offered to buy them from the property's owner who said just to take whatever he wanted...They were worth a lot of money when he went on the Road Show and are worth even more now. Picture here is one of the Little Nemo strips he owns, as it appeared in print in full color. Jonathan describes it as "a zoo on Mars and a Martian is showing Nemo and his gang around."
We asked Jonathan about his philosophy of criticism and he responded that he does not believe in attack criticism. And since his review space in the Windy City Times is usually only about 450 words, he doesn't have space to show off his "style." He'd rather spend 10 words writing about a costume or sound design than trying to show off his wit. He is very direct. To Jonathan, every single word sounds. Especially when writing about new work. About 50% of the shows produced in Chicago are new work. He will generally approach the script first, rather than the production elements or acting. The question is, "Does it work?" He talks about how consistently excellent most of the performances in Chicago theatre are right now.
Speaking of which, Gary, Frank, and Jonathan agree that the performances in Steppenwolf's production of the new play by Tina Landau and Tarell Alvin McCraney, Ms. Blakk for President, were just terrific!
Jonathan quotes the famous New Yorker critic, John Lahr's book title, Astonish Me, Adventures in Contemporary Theatre about what he's looking for when he walks into a theater. "Make me walk out full of the wonder of your production." He looks for that show that "just hits him in the guts." Sometimes he just "puts his pen down and lets it happen to him."
Jonathan Abarbanel, our first theatre critic guest, comes with great perspective not just as a theatre historian and scholar but also as an artist. He’s been an actor, dramaturg, playwright, and producer, so he knows what it means and takes to bring work to the stage. He’s the immediate past president of the American Theatre Critics Association. He’s reviewed Chicago theatre for 50 years and continues as a great critic for the Windy City Times and Footlights magazine.

He and Kerry Reid are the “Dueling Critics” on The Arts Section on WDCB public radio. This marvelous and nuanced conversation about Isaac Gomez’s play, La Ruta, is a great example of their collaboration and a chance to hear some longer form criticism from two real pros.

Another claim to fame was his appearance on the Antique Road Show with original artist boards of Winsor McCay’s comic strip, “Little Nemo in Slumberland.” Winsor invented animated cartoons with a character called “Gertie the Dinosaur“. Jonathan was working summer stock and came across the boards in a barn. He offered to buy them from the property’s owner who said just to take whatever he wanted…They were worth a lot of money when he went on the Road Show and are worth even more now. Picture here is one of the Little Nemo strips he owns, as it appeared in print in full color. Jonathan describes it as “a zoo on Mars and a Martian is showing Nemo and his gang around.”

We asked Jonathan about his philosophy of criticism and he responded that he does not believe in attack criticism. And since his review space in the Windy City Times is usually only about 450 words, he doesn’t have space to show off his “style.” He’d rather spend 10 words writing about a costume or sound design than trying to show off his wit. He is very direct. To Jonathan, every single word sounds. Especially when writing about new work. About 50% of the shows produced in Chicago are new work. He will generally approach the script first, rather than the production elements or acting. The question is, “Does it work?” He talks about how consistently excellent most of the performances in Chicago theatre are right now.

Speaking of which, Gary, Frank, and Jonathan agree that the performances in Steppenwolf’s production of the new play by Tina Landau and Tarell Alvin McCraney, Ms. Blakk for President, were just terrific!

Jonathan quotes the famous New Yorker critic, John Lahr’s book title, Astonish Me, Adventures in Contemporary Theatre about what he’s looking for when he walks into a theater. “Make me walk out full of the wonder of your production.” He looks for that show that “just hits him in the guts.” Sometimes he just “puts his pen down and lets it happen to him.”

]]>Jonathan Abarbanel, our first theatre critic guest, comes with great perspective not just as a theatre historian and scholar but also as an artist. He's been an actor, dramaturg, playwright, and producer, so he knows what it means and takes to bring wo...Jonathan Abarbanel, our first theatre critic guest, comes with great perspective not just as a theatre historian and scholar but also as an artist. He's been an actor, dramaturg, playwright, and producer, so he knows what it means and takes to bring work to the stage. He's the immediate past president of the American Theatre Critics Association. He's reviewed Chicago theatre for 50 years and continues as a great critic for the Windy City Times and Footlights magazine.

He and Kerry Reid are the "Dueling Critics" on The Arts Section on WDCB public radio. This marvelous and nuanced conversation about Isaac Gomez's play, La Ruta, is a great example of their collaboration and a chance to hear some longer form criticism from two real pros.

Another claim to fame was his appearance on the Antique Road Show with original artist boards of Winsor McCay's comic strip, "Little Nemo in Slumberland." Winsor invented animated cartoons with a character called "Gertie the Dinosaur". Jonathan was working summer stock and came across the boards in a barn. He offered to buy them from the property's owner who said just to take whatever he wanted...They were worth a lot of money when he went on the Road Show and are worth even more now. Picture here is one of the Little Nemo strips he owns, as it appeared in print in full color. Jonathan describes it as "a zoo on Mars and a Martian is showing Nemo and his gang around."

We asked Jonathan about his philosophy of criticism and he responded that he does not believe in attack criticism. And since his review space in the Windy City Times is usually only about 450 words, he doesn't have space to show off his "style." He'd rather spend 10 words writing about a costume or sound design than trying to show off his wit. He is very direct. To Jonathan, every single word sounds. Especially when writing about new work. About 50% of the shows produced in Chicago are new work. He will generally approach the script first, rather than the production elements or acting. The question is, "Does it work?" He talks about how consistently excellent most of the performances in Chicago theatre are right now.

Speaking of which, Gary, Frank, and Jonathan agree that the performances in Steppenwolf's production of the new play by Tina Landau and Tarell Alvin McCraney, Ms. Blakk for President, were just terrific!

We recently discovered that Dan was creating a series of pieces for WTTW called “Stage Players.” They are very short interview pieces honoring all of the kinds of people who make Chicago theatre great. They appear between other programs and are excellent. It’s amazing how much they convey in such a short period of time. We have had some of the same amazing guests. Check them out!

Dan’s career so far is pretty remarkable. He has been at WTTW since 2000. He was the series producer of Artbeat Chicago for 5 years, and did stories on the arts off and on for Chicago Tonight. In 2005 he began working on documentaries, which included “Beauty Rises: Four Lives in the Arts” (2006), “Cannot Live Without: Illinois Artists at Work” (2014) and nine documentaries on architects, including Chicago architects Jeanne Gang and Tom Beeby and the amazing French architects Marc & Nada Breitman. Here he is in Paris with Marc and WTTW’s Geoffrey Baer:

Other documentary projects include co-producing and co-writing “DuSable to Obama: Chicago’s Black Metropolis” and “Out & Proud in Chicago” as well as 2 Geoffrey Baer tour shows (River and the Southwest Suburbs) and a show about the Irish (“Irish Chicago”). Dan created the four-part series “Art & Design in Chicago” that aired in the fall of 2018.

Since 2006, he has also “had the great privilege of producing a multi-camera documentation of the work of Albany Park Theatre Project.” He does that work with his wife, Anne Northrup. One of those pieces, “Feast,” was broadcast on WTTW and won an Emmy.

He comes from a family of arts journalists. His mother, Dorothy Andries was a music critic on the North Shore for Pioneer Press and his aunt, Wynne Delacoma, was the classical music critic for the Chicago Sun-Times for a number of years.

I’ll Be Seeing You: John Singleton:

In our regular segment celebrating the life of someone who has recently left us, Gary shares the story of filmmaker, John Singleton. He was a huge talent and contributed so much to our history of film making. Read his obituary from the Washington Post here

]]>Seven-time Emmy award winner, WTTW producer, and documentary filmmaker Dan Andries joins us in the Booth! He arrived at the studio having just toured the Hamilton Exhibition on Northerly Island. Sounds like something we need to visit. - Seven-time Emmy award winner, WTTW producer, and documentary filmmaker Dan Andries joins us in the Booth! He arrived at the studio having just toured the Hamilton Exhibition on Northerly Island. Sounds like something we need to visit.

We recently discovered that Dan was creating a series of pieces for WTTW called "Stage Players." They are very short interview pieces honoring all of the kinds of people who make Chicago theatre great. They appear between other programs and are excellent. It's amazing how much they convey in such a short period of time. We have had some of the same amazing guests. Check them out!
Dan's career so far is pretty remarkable. He has been at WTTW since 2000. He was the series producer of Artbeat Chicago for 5 years, and did stories on the arts off and on for Chicago Tonight. In 2005 he began working on documentaries, which included “Beauty Rises: Four Lives in the Arts” (2006), “Cannot Live Without: Illinois Artists at Work” (2014) and nine documentaries on architects, including Chicago architects Jeanne Gang and Tom Beeby and the amazing French architects Marc & Nada Breitman. Here he is in Paris with Marc and WTTW's Geoffrey Baer:Beauty Rises is a wonderful documentary highlighting Laura Wiley, the co-founder of Albany Park Theatre Project, Orbert Davis, who created the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic, sculptor Dessa Kirk, and poet Alison Joseph. All moving and compelling stories.

Other documentary projects include co-producing and co-writing “DuSable to Obama: Chicago’s Black Metropolis” and “Out & Proud in Chicago” as well as 2 Geoffrey Baer tour shows (River and the Southwest Suburbs) and a show about the Irish (“Irish Chicago”). Dan created the four-part series “Art & Design in Chicago” that aired in the fall of 2018.

Since 2006, he has also "had the great privilege of producing a multi-camera documentation of the work of Albany Park Theatre Project." He does that work with his wife, Anne Northrup. One of those pieces, “Feast,” was broadcast on WTTW and won an Emmy.
He comes from a family of arts journalists. His mother, Dorothy Andries was a music critic on the North Shore for Pioneer Press and his aunt, Wynne Delacoma, was the classical music critic for the Chicago Sun-Times for a number of years.

I'll Be Seeing You: John Singleton:

In our regular segment celebrating the life of someone who has recently left us, Gary shares the story of filmmaker, John Singleton. He was a huge talent and contributed so much to our history of film making. Read his obituary from the Washington Post here]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau57:16Quadruple Threats! – Lili-Anne Brown & Robert Cornelius – Episode 96https://booth-one.com/2019/04/quadruple-threats-lili-anne-brown-robert-cornelius-episode-96/
Thu, 18 Apr 2019 22:38:06 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3661Join our rollicking conversation with two of the most talented artists we know, Lili-Anne Brown and Robert Cornelius. Lili-Anne is the luminous director of many great productions and also an accomplished actor, singer, and educator. Robert, who has appeared on our show before (episode 67), is a brilliant actor, singer, educator, and designer. These are just some of their many gifts.
Booth One has had the honor of witnessing two of their thrilling collaborations this season in The Total Bent produced by Haven and About Face and in Lottery Day, onstage now through April 28 at the Goodman. Gary and Frank talked about how much they loved The Total Bent on our last episode. Learn more about that show and Ike Holter's dazzling Lottery Day on this episode.
We have so much more to say about the conversation, but are publishing it now while there are still some chances to get seats to see Lottery Day (11 more performances with just a few tickets left). Will update this page soon...Join our rollicking conversation with two of the most talented artists we know, Lili-Anne Brown and Robert Cornelius. Lili-Anne is the luminous director of many great productions and also an accomplished actor, singer, and educator. Robert, who has appeared on our show before (episode 67), is a brilliant actor, singer, educator, and designer. These are just some of their many gifts.

Booth One has had the honor of witnessing two of their thrilling collaborations this season in The Total Bent produced by Haven and About Face and in Lottery Day, onstage now through April 28 at the Goodman. Gary and Frank talked about how much they loved The Total Bent on our last episode. Learn more about that show and Ike Holter’s dazzling Lottery Day on this episode.

We have so much more to say about the conversation, but are publishing it now while there are still some chances to get seats to see Lottery Day (11 more performances with just a few tickets left). Will update this page soon…

]]>Join our rollicking conversation with two of the most talented artists we know, Lili-Anne Brown and Robert Cornelius. Lili-Anne is the luminous director of many great productions and also an accomplished actor, singer, and educator. Robert,Join our rollicking conversation with two of the most talented artists we know, Lili-Anne Brown and Robert Cornelius. Lili-Anne is the luminous director of many great productions and also an accomplished actor, singer, and educator. Robert, who has appeared on our show before (episode 67), is a brilliant actor, singer, educator, and designer. These are just some of their many gifts.

Booth One has had the honor of witnessing two of their thrilling collaborations this season in The Total Bent produced by Haven and About Face and in Lottery Day, onstage now through April 28 at the Goodman. Gary and Frank talked about how much they loved The Total Bent on our last episode. Learn more about that show and Ike Holter's dazzling Lottery Day on this episode.

We have so much more to say about the conversation, but are publishing it now while there are still some chances to get seats to see Lottery Day (11 more performances with just a few tickets left). Will update this page soon...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau53:49Theatergoers Digest – Gary and Frank – Episode 95https://booth-one.com/2019/04/theatergoers-digest-gary-and-frank-episode-95/
Thu, 18 Apr 2019 03:22:47 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3643It's Gary and Frank together in the Booth for a cavalcade of theatergoer notes on shows we've recently seen around Chicago. First off, Frank tells us about his adventures in speech competition judging that's kept him away from home the past month. By all accounts, the dazzling array of young talented actors and orators is promising news for the future of theater and performance in the Chicago area.
Just this afternoon, our boys went to Northlight Theatre to see the world premiere play Landladies by Sharyn Rothstein, directed by Jess McLeod. As luck would have it, this sparkling three-hander features actress Leah Karpel, who Frank has known since she was a baby some 25-odd years ago. Leah was gracious enough to spend a few minutes with us after the show talking about her role and the privilege of appearing in a world premiere, and we bring you some of that remote interview in this episode. Running through April 20.
Next, we traveled to the Den Theatre to see a truly inspiring and brilliantly produced musical show called The Total Bent. Written by the acclaimed singer, songwriter, founder and leader of the punk-rock combo The Negro Problem, Stew, and his writing partner Heidi Rodewald, The Total Bent traces the lives of an established Gospel and R&B singer (magnificently played by Robert Cornelius) and his upstart young son (a dazzling debut by Gilbert Domally) as they navigate show business and the total bent of their lives together and apart. Though closed now, this show was one of the finest productions Chicago has seen in many years, so keep your eyes peeled for a revival. Director Lili-Anne Brown does amazing work keeping the story and the tension moving. Teaser Alert: Robert Cornelius and Lili-Anne Brown will be our guests next time on Episode 96!
Have you heard of the very smart fish that scientists think can recognize itself in a mirror? Until now, the only species to have passed the mirror test were great apes, bottlenose dolphins, killer whales, Eurasian magpies and a single Asian elephant. Add to that list the cleaner wrasse, a 4-inch fish that lives in coral reefs. Read the full story here. Along those lines, Gary wishes that some annoying theatergoers were more self-aware!
A Caryl Churchill play called A Number is receiving a striking production at Writers Theatre this spring. Running through June 9 in the Gillian Theatre, this 65-minute show is about parenting, cloning and going back to try to fix mistakes in your life. Gary was a bit lost in the narrative at times, but the two performances by William Brown and Nate Burger are compelling. Directed by Robin Witt, it's a roller coaster ride through a strikingly familiar future. As always with Writers, the production values and quality are top-notch. You can't go wrong with an evening out at Writers Theatre.
Former President Jimmy Carter has become the longest-living president in US history. This past week, Mr. Carter, the nation's 39th president, reached the age of 94 years and 172 days. He has enjoyed the longest post-presidency in American history. His tireless resolve and heart have helped to improve life for millions of the world's poorest people. God bless Mr. Carter and his continued work for those in need.
I'll Be Seeing You (aka Kiss of Death)
Stanley Donan - The director and choreographer of classic musicals such as Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Singin' in the Rain, Royal Wedding, The Pajama Game and Damn Yankees. Mr. Donan was frequently overshadowed by his collaborator Gene Kelly, but they made a grand team. By 1960, the Metro musical was no more and Donan became an accomplished director of comedy, romance and spoof thrillers, such as Charade and Two for the Road. Mr. Donan was married five times and is survived by his long-time partner, the writer, director and actor Elaine May. Stanley Donan was 94. Read the full Guardian obit by David Thomson here.
It’s Gary and Frank together in the Booth for a cavalcade of theatergoer notes on shows we’ve recently seen around Chicago. First off, Frank tells us about his adventures in speech competition judging that’s kept him away from home the past month. By all accounts, the dazzling array of young talented actors and orators is promising news for the future of theater and performance in the Chicago area.

Just this afternoon, our boys went to Northlight Theatre to see the world premiere play Landladies by Sharyn Rothstein, directed by Jess McLeod. As luck would have it, this sparkling three-hander features actress Leah Karpel, who Frank has known since she was a baby some 25-odd years ago. Leah was gracious enough to spend a few minutes with us after the show talking about her role and the privilege of appearing in a world premiere, and we bring you some of that remote interview in this episode. Running through April 20.

Next, we traveled to the Den Theatre to see a truly inspiring and brilliantly produced musical show called The Total Bent. Written by the acclaimed singer, songwriter, founder and leader of the punk-rock combo The Negro Problem, Stew, and his writing partner Heidi Rodewald, The Total Bent traces the lives of an established Gospel and R&B singer (magnificently played by Robert Cornelius) and his upstart young son (a dazzling debut by Gilbert Domally) as they navigate show business and the total bent of their lives together and apart. Though closed now, this show was one of the finest productions Chicago has seen in many years, so keep your eyes peeled for a revival. Director Lili-Anne Brown does amazing work keeping the story and the tension moving. Teaser Alert: Robert Cornelius and Lili-Anne Brown will be our guests next time on Episode 96!

Have you heard of the very smart fish that scientists think can recognize itself in a mirror? Until now, the only species to have passed the mirror test were great apes, bottlenose dolphins, killer whales, Eurasian magpies and a single Asian elephant. Add to that list the cleaner wrasse, a 4-inch fish that lives in coral reefs. Read the full story here. Along those lines, Gary wishes that some annoying theatergoers were more self-aware!

A Caryl Churchill play called A Number is receiving a striking production at Writers Theatre this spring. Running through June 9 in the Gillian Theatre, this 65-minute show is about parenting, cloning and going back to try to fix mistakes in your life. Gary was a bit lost in the narrative at times, but the two performances by William Brown and Nate Burger are compelling. Directed by Robin Witt, it’s a roller coaster ride through a strikingly familiar future. As always with Writers, the production values and quality are top-notch. You can’t go wrong with an evening out at Writers Theatre.

Former President Jimmy Carter has become the longest-living president in US history. This past week, Mr. Carter, the nation’s 39th president, reached the age of 94 years and 172 days. He has enjoyed the longest post-presidency in American history. His tireless resolve and heart have helped to improve life for millions of the world’s poorest people. God bless Mr. Carter and his continued work for those in need.

I’ll Be Seeing You (aka Kiss of Death)

Stanley Donan – The director and choreographer of classic musicals such as Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Singin’ in the Rain, Royal Wedding, The Pajama Game and Damn Yankees. Mr. Donan was frequently overshadowed by his collaborator Gene Kelly, but they made a grand team. By 1960, the Metro musical was no more and Donan became an accomplished director of comedy, romance and spoof thrillers, such as Charade and Two for the Road. Mr. Donan was married five times and is survived by his long-time partner, the writer, director and actor Elaine May. Stanley Donan was 94. Read the full Guardian obit by David Thomson here.

]]>It's Gary and Frank together in the Booth for a cavalcade of theatergoer notes on shows we've recently seen around Chicago. First off, Frank tells us about his adventures in speech competition judging that's kept him away from home the past month.It's Gary and Frank together in the Booth for a cavalcade of theatergoer notes on shows we've recently seen around Chicago. First off, Frank tells us about his adventures in speech competition judging that's kept him away from home the past month. By all accounts, the dazzling array of young talented actors and orators is promising news for the future of theater and performance in the Chicago area.

Just this afternoon, our boys went to Northlight Theatre to see the world premiere play Landladies by Sharyn Rothstein, directed by Jess McLeod. As luck would have it, this sparkling three-hander features actress Leah Karpel, who Frank has known since she was a baby some 25-odd years ago. Leah was gracious enough to spend a few minutes with us after the show talking about her role and the privilege of appearing in a world premiere, and we bring you some of that remote interview in this episode. Running through April 20.

Next, we traveled to the Den Theatre to see a truly inspiring and brilliantly produced musical show called The Total Bent. Written by the acclaimed singer, songwriter, founder and leader of the punk-rock combo The Negro Problem, Stew, and his writing partner Heidi Rodewald, The Total Bent traces the lives of an established Gospel and R&B singer (magnificently played by Robert Cornelius) and his upstart young son (a dazzling debut by Gilbert Domally) as they navigate show business and the total bent of their lives together and apart. Though closed now, this show was one of the finest productions Chicago has seen in many years, so keep your eyes peeled for a revival. Director Lili-Anne Brown does amazing work keeping the story and the tension moving. Teaser Alert: Robert Cornelius and Lili-Anne Brown will be our guests next time on Episode 96!

Have you heard of the very smart fish that scientists think can recognize itself in a mirror? Until now, the only species to have passed the mirror test were great apes, bottlenose dolphins, killer whales, Eurasian magpies and a single Asian elephant. Add to that list the cleaner wrasse, a 4-inch fish that lives in coral reefs. Read the full story here. Along those lines, Gary wishes that some annoying theatergoers were more self-aware!

A Caryl Churchill play called A Number is receiving a striking production at Writers Theatre this spring. Running through June 9 in the Gillian Theatre, this 65-minute show is about parenting, cloning and going back to try to fix mistakes in your l...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau46:58Creating a Safe Space – Stage Managers Malcolm Ewen and Laura Glenn – Episode 94https://booth-one.com/2019/03/creating-a-safe-space-stage-managers-malcolm-ewen-and-laura-glenn-episode-94/
Sun, 31 Mar 2019 01:12:32 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3599Gary welcomes to the Booth two true Chicago theatre professionals - both long-time stage managers at Steppenwolf Theatre - Malcolm Ewen and Laura Glenn. No one has better behind-the scenes stories than great stage managers. Malcolm has been at Steppenwolf since 1987 and was most recently welcomed into the company's elite Ensemble, an honor he didn't even know was possible. He is the first stage manager to become an ensemble member. Malcolm has taken 4 shows to Broadway, including The Grapes of Wrath and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf, which were both honored with Tony awards. He has also stage managed at the Goodman, Northlight, and Remains Theatres, among others. He has directed at the Weston Playhouse Theatre in Vermont during summers for 30 years.
Laura has been with Steppenwolf for 25 years with an impressive resume of memorable shows including Buried Child, Superior Donuts, and The Rembrandt. From her Actor's Equity bio: "I was fortunate enough to work with and be mentored by many great stage managers, including my hero, Malcolm Ewen. I have been a part of world premieres, great revivals, taken shows to international festivals and Broadway – both with Steppenwolf and my other creative home, Northlight Theatre."
Laura and Malcolm address the age-old question, "What does a stage manager do?", with wit, sincerity and personal insight. As Gary well knows, having started his career in the theatre as a stage manager in New York, being an SM involves a myriad of responsibilities, including establishing a safe and collaborative space in which the actors and director can feel free to create, fail and try new ideas. There are also the tangible elements of scheduling, communicating, and upholding the Actors' Equity rule book, which Malcolm describes as jigsaw puzzle work.
The two colleagues and dear friends reminisce about past show experiences, including some of their most satisfying and rewarding projects - Bruce Norris' Downstate for Laura and Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolff for Mal. Laura talks about the special bond she had with the late John Mahoney. As a teacher of stage management, Malcolm has reminded his students to find their own rewards and reasons for individual achievement in a profession that can have very few accolades or public job recognition. Laura likens stage management to being a catcher on a baseball diamond. While you direct the traffic on the field and may even call the no-hitter, it's likely most people will not see your face behind the mask.
Malcolm discusses his most challenging project to date - Paul Simon's Broadway musical The Capeman. This 1998 Broadway show was a commercial and critical failure, and Gary compares it to his experience on the ill-fated Peter Allen musical Legs Diamond. The three stage managers recall how the most stressful projects are the ones where the many elements that go into making a stage piece either don't come together or were ill-conceived from the start. Large casts and financial risk are also contributing factors.
In our "Good Times and Bum Times" segment, we learn about the ex-wife of a man who declined to take him back even after he won the $275 million Mega Millions lottery. "I have morals," Eileen Murray said. Then there's the story of the man who tried to strangle his Lyft driver for singing out-of-season Christmas songs. Silent Night indeed!
Everyone loves to hear stories of theatrical near-disasters and Malcolm, Laura and Gary have their share of tales to tell. From The Grapes of Wrath (41 actors for starters) to John Malkovich in a scenery train wreck, these stories bring to light the backstage trials and tribulations of stage management and production. And they're hilarious to boot!
Gary announces the 2019-20 Steppenwolf season of shows, which contains two basketball-themed plays, as well as a world premiere musical called Lindiwe featuring the music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Malcolm and Laura will both be working on that project,Gary welcomes to the Booth two true Chicago theatre professionals – both long-time stage managers at Steppenwolf Theatre – Malcolm Ewen and Laura Glenn. No one has better behind-the scenes stories than great stage managers. Malcolm has been at Steppenwolf since 1987 and was most recently welcomed into the company’s elite Ensemble, an honor he didn’t even know was possible. He is the first stage manager to become an ensemble member. Malcolm has taken 4 shows to Broadway, including The Grapes of Wrath and Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, which were both honored with Tony awards. He has also stage managed at the Goodman, Northlight, and Remains Theatres, among others. He has directed at the Weston Playhouse Theatre in Vermont during summers for 30 years.

Laura has been with Steppenwolf for 25 years with an impressive resume of memorable shows including Buried Child, Superior Donuts, and The Rembrandt. From her Actor’s Equity bio: “I was fortunate enough to work with and be mentored by many great stage managers, including my hero, Malcolm Ewen. I have been a part of world premieres, great revivals, taken shows to international festivals and Broadway – both with Steppenwolf and my other creative home, Northlight Theatre.”

Laura and Malcolm address the age-old question, “What does a stage manager do?”, with wit, sincerity and personal insight. As Gary well knows, having started his career in the theatre as a stage manager in New York, being an SM involves a myriad of responsibilities, including establishing a safe and collaborative space in which the actors and director can feel free to create, fail and try new ideas. There are also the tangible elements of scheduling, communicating, and upholding the Actors’ Equity rule book, which Malcolm describes as jigsaw puzzle work.

The two colleagues and dear friends reminisce about past show experiences, including some of their most satisfying and rewarding projects – Bruce Norris’ Downstate for Laura and Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolff for Mal. Laura talks about the special bond she had with the late John Mahoney. As a teacher of stage management, Malcolm has reminded his students to find their own rewards and reasons for individual achievement in a profession that can have very few accolades or public job recognition. Laura likens stage management to being a catcher on a baseball diamond. While you direct the traffic on the field and may even call the no-hitter, it’s likely most people will not see your face behind the mask.

Malcolm discusses his most challenging project to date – Paul Simon’s Broadway musical The Capeman. This 1998 Broadway show was a commercial and critical failure, and Gary compares it to his experience on the ill-fated Peter Allen musical Legs Diamond. The three stage managers recall how the most stressful projects are the ones where the many elements that go into making a stage piece either don’t come together or were ill-conceived from the start. Large casts and financial risk are also contributing factors.

In our “Good Times and Bum Times” segment, we learn about the ex-wife of a man who declined to take him back even after he won the $275 million Mega Millions lottery. “I have morals,” Eileen Murray said. Then there’s the story of the man who tried to strangle his Lyft driver for singing out-of-season Christmas songs. Silent Night indeed!

Everyone loves to hear stories of theatrical near-disasters and Malcolm, Laura and Gary have their share of tales to tell. From The Grapes of Wrath (41 actors for starters) to John Malkovich in a scenery train wreck, these stories bring to light the backstage trials and tribulations of stage management and production. And they’re hilarious to boot!

Gary announces the 2019-20 Steppenwolf season of shows, which contains two basketball-themed plays, as well as a world premiere musical called Lindiwe featuring the music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Malcolm and Laura will both be working on that project, directed by friend of the show Jonathan Berry.

Finally, Gary asks Malcolm about his sobriquet “The King of Broadway.” The story behind how he got this nickname is on par with the great backstage theatre anecdotes of all time. Thank you, Terry Kinney!

]]>Gary welcomes to the Booth two true Chicago theatre professionals - both long-time stage managers at Steppenwolf Theatre - Malcolm Ewen and Laura Glenn. No one has better behind-the scenes stories than great stage managers.Steppenwolf Theatre - Malcolm Ewen and Laura Glenn. No one has better behind-the scenes stories than great stage managers. Malcolm has been at Steppenwolf since 1987 and was most recently welcomed into the company's elite Ensemble, an honor he didn't even know was possible. He is the first stage manager to become an ensemble member. Malcolm has taken 4 shows to Broadway, including The Grapes of Wrath and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf, which were both honored with Tony awards. He has also stage managed at the Goodman, Northlight, and Remains Theatres, among others. He has directed at the Weston Playhouse Theatre in Vermont during summers for 30 years.

Laura has been with Steppenwolf for 25 years with an impressive resume of memorable shows including Buried Child, Superior Donuts, and The Rembrandt. From her Actor's Equity bio: "I was fortunate enough to work with and be mentored by many great stage managers, including my hero, Malcolm Ewen. I have been a part of world premieres, great revivals, taken shows to international festivals and Broadway – both with Steppenwolf and my other creative home, Northlight Theatre."

Laura and Malcolm address the age-old question, "What does a stage manager do?", with wit, sincerity and personal insight. As Gary well knows, having started his career in the theatre as a stage manager in New York, being an SM involves a myriad of responsibilities, including establishing a safe and collaborative space in which the actors and director can feel free to create, fail and try new ideas. There are also the tangible elements of scheduling, communicating, and upholding the Actors' Equity rule book, which Malcolm describes as jigsaw puzzle work.

The two colleagues and dear friends reminisce about past show experiences, including some of their most satisfying and rewarding projects - Bruce Norris' Downstate for Laura and Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolff for Mal. Laura talks about the special bond she had with the late John Mahoney. As a teacher of stage management, Malcolm has reminded his students to find their own rewards and reasons for individual achievement in a profession that can have very few accolades or public job recognition. Laura likens stage management to being a catcher on a bas...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau1:00:14Red Rex – Director Jonathan Berry and Actor Jessica Dean Turner – Episode 93https://booth-one.com/2019/03/red-rex-director-jonathan-berry-and-actor-jessica-dean-turner-episode-93/
Mon, 11 Mar 2019 03:11:26 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3579Gary welcomes director Jonathan Berry and actor Jessica Dean Turner from the new hit play Red Rex to the Booth today. Written by Ike Holter as the newest in his Rightlynd series of plays, Red Rex is is receiving a world premiere by Steep Theatre and is being presented in their 55-seat space at 1115 W. Berwyn through March 30. Gary called it "one of the most moving, thought-provoking and beautifully produced plays he's seen in many a season."
The production is about members of a Chicago storefront theater company who are working on a new play being presented by a Chicago storefront theater company. Jonathan discusses the meta nature of directing this project at Steep, where he's been an ensemble member for many years, having directed there since 2007. Jon describes one of the themes of the play: "The theatre community can create its own center of focus, obscuring, entirely, the actual world just outside the door."
Jonathan and Jessica talk about the play's other themes, including equity and inclusion, inadvertent and subtle acts of racism, shining a light on the pretentiousness of some creative processes, and the deep humor and humanity with which Ike Holter treats each of his characters. It's a discussion that will make you want to run, don't walk, to the see Red Rex at the Steep.
Jessica talks about her theatre training in the very intensive program at the University of Illinois - Urbana, and how the rigorous nature of the program prepared her for the life of a working actor. As a non-Equity actor striving to make a career in the burgeoning off-Loop theatre scene, Jessica is frank in her assessment of the challenges and struggles that entails. The commutes are long, the pay is low, and the competition is steep(!) But Jonathan and Jessica both emphasize what most audiences already know - the Chicago style of acting exemplifies a fierceness and passion fueled by the daily grind that is the nature of a life in the theatre.
Gary offers a play idea with the news story of 183 Amtrak passengers stranded for 37 hours in a snowstorm in the Oregon wilderness. Jonathan has been on plenty of delayed Amtrak trips and describes the mounting stress among the passengers as "a Lord of the Flies mentality." The dramatic possibilities are endless!
Jessica also teaches at the Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts), training young performers. ChiArts is a public 4–year college preparatory visual and performing arts high school located in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. Operated by the Chicago Public Schools district, the school opened for the 2009–10 school year. She's also worked as an actor-patient at Northwestern Medical School where she helped train doctors to treat a variety of conditions and symptoms. A great acting exercise.
Kiss of Death:
Ethel Ennis - Celebrated Singer Who Walked Away from Fame:
Ms. Ennis was a highly respected jazz singer in the 1950s and 60s. Ella Fitzgerald stated that Ms. Ennis was her favorite young vocalist, and Frank Sinatra called her "my kind of singer". But Ethel grew disillusioned with the demands placed on young divas, and she eschewed national celebrity for a quieter life in her hometown of Baltimore, where she earned the unofficial title of Baltimore's "First Lady of Jazz." Ethel Ennis was 86. Read the full NYTimes obit here.
Check out her beautiful rendition of My Foolish Heart on YouTube.
Gary welcomes director Jonathan Berry and actor Jessica Dean Turner from the new hit play Red Rex to the Booth today. Written by Ike Holter as the newest in his Rightlynd series of plays, Red Rex is is receiving a world premiere by Steep Theatre and is being presented in their 55-seat space at 1115 W. Berwyn through March 30. Gary called it “one of the most moving, thought-provoking and beautifully produced plays he’s seen in many a season.”

The production is about members of a Chicago storefront theater company who are working on a new play being presented by a Chicago storefront theater company. Jonathan discusses the meta nature of directing this project at Steep, where he’s been an ensemble member for many years, having directed there since 2007. Jon describes one of the themes of the play: “The theatre community can create its own center of focus, obscuring, entirely, the actual world just outside the door.”

Jonathan and Jessica talk about the play’s other themes, including equity and inclusion, inadvertent and subtle acts of racism, shining a light on the pretentiousness of some creative processes, and the deep humor and humanity with which Ike Holter treats each of his characters. It’s a discussion that will make you want to run, don’t walk, to the see Red Rex at the Steep.

Jessica talks about her theatre training in the very intensive program at the University of Illinois – Urbana, and how the rigorous nature of the program prepared her for the life of a working actor. As a non-Equity actor striving to make a career in the burgeoning off-Loop theatre scene, Jessica is frank in her assessment of the challenges and struggles that entails. The commutes are long, the pay is low, and the competition is steep(!) But Jonathan and Jessica both emphasize what most audiences already know – the Chicago style of acting exemplifies a fierceness and passion fueled by the daily grind that is the nature of a life in the theatre.

Gary offers a play idea with the news story of 183 Amtrak passengers stranded for 37 hours in a snowstorm in the Oregon wilderness. Jonathan has been on plenty of delayed Amtrak trips and describes the mounting stress among the passengers as “a Lord of the Flies mentality.” The dramatic possibilities are endless!

Jessica also teaches at the Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts), training young performers. ChiArts is a public 4–year college preparatory visual and performing arts high school located in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. Operated by the Chicago Public Schools district, the school opened for the 2009–10 school year. She’s also worked as an actor-patient at Northwestern Medical School where she helped train doctors to treat a variety of conditions and symptoms. A great acting exercise.

Ms. Ennis was a highly respected jazz singer in the 1950s and 60s. Ella Fitzgerald stated that Ms. Ennis was her favorite young vocalist, and Frank Sinatra called her “my kind of singer”. But Ethel grew disillusioned with the demands placed on young divas, and she eschewed national celebrity for a quieter life in her hometown of Baltimore, where she earned the unofficial title of Baltimore’s “First Lady of Jazz.” Ethel Ennis was 86. Read the full NYTimes obit here.

]]>Gary welcomes director Jonathan Berry and actor Jessica Dean Turner from the new hit play Red Rex to the Booth today. Written by Ike Holter as the newest in his Rightlynd series of plays, Red Rex is is receiving a world premiere by Steep Theatre and is...Gary welcomes director Jonathan Berry and actor Jessica Dean Turner from the new hit play Red Rex to the Booth today. Written by Ike Holter as the newest in his Rightlynd series of plays, Red Rex is is receiving a world premiere by Steep Theatre and is being presented in their 55-seat space at 1115 W. Berwyn through March 30. Gary called it "one of the most moving, thought-provoking and beautifully produced plays he's seen in many a season."

The production is about members of a Chicago storefront theater company who are working on a new play being presented by a Chicago storefront theater company. Jonathan discusses the meta nature of directing this project at Steep, where he's been an ensemble member for many years, having directed there since 2007. Jon describes one of the themes of the play: "The theatre community can create its own center of focus, obscuring, entirely, the actual world just outside the door."

Jonathan and Jessica talk about the play's other themes, including equity and inclusion, inadvertent and subtle acts of racism, shining a light on the pretentiousness of some creative processes, and the deep humor and humanity with which Ike Holter treats each of his characters. It's a discussion that will make you want to run, don't walk, to the see Red Rex at the Steep.

Jessica talks about her theatre training in the very intensive program at the University of Illinois - Urbana, and how the rigorous nature of the program prepared her for the life of a working actor. As a non-Equity actor striving to make a career in the burgeoning off-Loop theatre scene, Jessica is frank in her assessment of the challenges and struggles that entails. The commutes are long, the pay is low, and the competition is steep(!) But Jonathan and Jessica both emphasize what most audiences already know - the Chicago style of acting exemplifies a fierceness and passion fueled by the daily grind that is the nature of a life in the theatre.

Gary offers a play idea with the news story of 183 Amtrak passengers stranded for 37 hours in a snowstorm in the Oregon wilderness. Jonathan has been on plenty of delayed Amtrak trips and describes the mounting stress among the passengers as "a Lord of the Flies mentality." The dramatic possibilities are endless!

Jessica also teaches at the Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts), training young performers. ChiArts is a public 4–year college preparatory visual and performing arts high school located in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. Operated by the Chicago Public Schools district, the school opened for the 2009–10 school year. She's also worked as an actor-patient at Northwestern Medical School where she helped train doctors to treat a variety of conditions and symptoms. A great acting exercise.

Ms. Ennis was a highly respected jazz singer in the 1950s and 60s. Ella Fitzgerald stated that Ms. Ennis was her favorite young vocalist,]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau52:29Division Street Princess – Author Elaine Soloway – Episode 92https://booth-one.com/2019/02/division-street-princess-author-elaine-soloway-episode-92/
Tue, 12 Feb 2019 00:11:11 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3543We were thrilled to welcome Elaine Soloway to the booth for episode 92! Check out her bio here. She is something else. Between her two memoirs, her Roman à clef, the essays she writes for her blogs, and having part of her life fictionalized on the television show, Transparent, Elaine is "living out loud." Learn about her books and essays by going to Elaine's website. Or friend her on Facebook. At 80 years old, she regularly communicates on social media and has 4,000 FB friends!
Elaine grew up on Division Street in Chicago. Her memoir about those years is called Division Street Princess. We highly recommend that and all of her books!
Elaine's "audacious" daughters are Jill and Faith Soloway, whose many remarkable accomplishments include creating the sensation called The Real Live Brady Bunch at Chicago's Annoyance Theatre. This project was a huge hit and wound up traveling the country with a first rate cast including Jane Lynch and Andy Richter. Check out this video rehearsal footage.
Faith is a musician & producer of rock operas. She regularly works as a collaborator with her sister, Jill, who wrote created the ground-breaking and award-winning show Transparent. The character of Maura was inspired by their father and Elaine calls Judith Light's wonderful character a "version" of herself. Jill Soloway's other credits include writing for the TV show Six Feet Under.
When Faith & Jill were growing up, their family lived in "South Commons" in Chicago for 10 years. The intention of this 30 acre community was to integrate people of different races, incomes, home styles, and ages. There was a K-3 school on the campus and a community center with tons of exciting activities. Elaine, who had been an unhappy housewife, was soon editor of the community paper and had started a musical theatre company. Her husband and daughters starred in some of those shows. Elaine thinks that community helped make her extraordinarily talented daughters who they are.
GZ & Frank review the movie Cold War and give it a big thumbs up.
Elaine tells us about a recent comedy pilot writing class she took at iO taught by Mike McCarthy.
Gary shares the sighting of Deep Blue, one of the largest great white sharks in the world. more than 20 feet long and 2.5 tons at age 50. Check out this amazing story.
Elaine appeared on Season 3, Episode 3 of Transparent and was fabulous. She talks about what a warm family the cast is and how much fun it is to be on the set. We ask about our favorite Chicago actors on the show, Alexandra Billings and Amy Landecker. She adores them. Season Five is going to be a 2-hour musical (!) and Elaine reports the entire cast can really sing. Faith is writing the music. To be released this year. We can't wait!
Kiss of Death: Francis Grill - Founder of Click Model Management.
Read the NYT obit by Rachel Felder here. Grill's story is remarkable. She founded the first inclusive modeling agency and the way she got her start is fascinating. Look up some of the images of models she represented.We were thrilled to welcome Elaine Soloway to the booth for episode 92! Check out her bio here. She is something else. Between her two memoirs, her Roman à clef, the essays she writes for her blogs, and having part of her life fictionalized on the television show, Transparent, Elaine is “living out loud.” Learn about her books and essays by going to Elaine’s website. Or friend her on Facebook. At 80 years old, she regularly communicates on social media and has 4,000 FB friends!

Elaine grew up on Division Street in Chicago. Her memoir about those years is called Division Street Princess. We highly recommend that and all of her books!

Elaine’s “audacious” daughters are Jill and Faith Soloway, whose many remarkable accomplishments include creating the sensation called The Real Live Brady Bunch at Chicago’s Annoyance Theatre. This project was a huge hit and wound up traveling the country with a first rate cast including Jane Lynch and Andy Richter. Check out this video rehearsal footage.

Faith is a musician & producer of rock operas. She regularly works as a collaborator with her sister, Jill, who wrote created the ground-breaking and award-winning show Transparent. The character of Maura was inspired by their father and Elaine calls Judith Light’s wonderful character a “version” of herself. Jill Soloway’s other credits include writing for the TV show Six Feet Under.

When Faith & Jill were growing up, their family lived in “South Commons” in Chicago for 10 years. The intention of this 30 acre community was to integrate people of different races, incomes, home styles, and ages. There was a K-3 school on the campus and a community center with tons of exciting activities. Elaine, who had been an unhappy housewife, was soon editor of the community paper and had started a musical theatre company. Her husband and daughters starred in some of those shows. Elaine thinks that community helped make her extraordinarily talented daughters who they are.

Gary shares the sighting of Deep Blue, one of the largest great white sharks in the world. more than 20 feet long and 2.5 tons at age 50. Check out this amazing story.

Elaine appeared on Season 3, Episode 3 of Transparent and was fabulous. She talks about what a warm family the cast is and how much fun it is to be on the set. We ask about our favorite Chicago actors on the show, Alexandra Billings and Amy Landecker. She adores them. Season Five is going to be a 2-hour musical (!) and Elaine reports the entire cast can really sing. Faith is writing the music. To be released this year. We can’t wait!

Kiss of Death: Francis Grill – Founder of Click Model Management.

Read the NYT obit by Rachel Felder here. Grill’s story is remarkable. She founded the first inclusive modeling agency and the way she got her start is fascinating. Look up some of the images of models she represented.

]]>We were thrilled to welcome Elaine Soloway to the booth for episode 92! Check out her bio here. She is something else. Between her two memoirs, her Roman à clef, the essays she writes for her blogs, and having part of her life fictionalized on the tele...We were thrilled to welcome Elaine Soloway to the booth for episode 92! Check out her bio here. She is something else. Between her two memoirs, her Roman à clef, the essays she writes for her blogs, and having part of her life fictionalized on the television show, Transparent, Elaine is "living out loud." Learn about her books and essays by going to Elaine's website. Or friend her on Facebook. At 80 years old, she regularly communicates on social media and has 4,000 FB friends!

Elaine grew up on Division Street in Chicago. Her memoir about those years is called Division Street Princess. We highly recommend that and all of her books!

Elaine's "audacious" daughters are Jill and Faith Soloway, whose many remarkable accomplishments include creating the sensation called The Real Live Brady Bunch at Chicago's Annoyance Theatre. This project was a huge hit and wound up traveling the country with a first rate cast including Jane Lynch and Andy Richter. Check out this video rehearsal footage.

Faith is a musician & producer of rock operas. She regularly works as a collaborator with her sister, Jill, who wrote created the ground-breaking and award-winning show Transparent. The character of Maura was inspired by their father and Elaine calls Judith Light's wonderful character a "version" of herself. Jill Soloway's other credits include writing for the TV show Six Feet Under.

When Faith & Jill were growing up, their family lived in "South Commons" in Chicago for 10 years. The intention of this 30 acre community was to integrate people of different races, incomes, home styles, and ages. There was a K-3 school on the campus and a community center with tons of exciting activities. Elaine, who had been an unhappy housewife, was soon editor of the community paper and had started a musical theatre company. Her husband and daughters starred in some of those shows. Elaine thinks that community helped make her extraordinarily talented daughters who they are.

Gary shares the sighting of Deep Blue, one of the largest great white sharks in the world. more than 20 feet long and 2.5 tons at age 50. Check out this amazing story.

Elaine appeared on Season 3, Episode 3 of Transparent and was fabulous. She talks about what a warm family the cast is and how much fun it is to be on the set. We ask about our favorite Chicago actors on the show, Alexandra Billings and Amy Landecker. She adores them. Season Five is going to be a 2-hour musical (!) and Elaine reports the entire cast can really sing. Faith is writing the music. To be released this year. We can't wait!

Kiss of Death: Francis Grill - Founder of Click Model Management.

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau59:42The Year of Chicago Theatre, with Mark Kelly & Sandra Marquez – Episode 91https://booth-one.com/2019/01/the-year-of-chicago-theatre-with-mark-kelly-sandra-marquez-episode-91/
Fri, 25 Jan 2019 03:38:32 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3502We are thrilled to be part of the launch of the "Year of Chicago Theatre", helmed by the Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events (DCASE) Commisioner, Mark Kelly.
Mark at the Chicago Jazz Festival
Mark joined us to talk about this first-ever City initiative that is "calling on the world to recognize the power of Chicago Theatre." Partnering with the League of Chicago Theatres and all of the individual theatres, the goal is: "to be a Chicagoan, you are welcome into a Chicago Theatre."
From the City's press release: "To truly fall in love with Chicago, you must go to our theaters. This is where the city bares its fearless soul. From joy to heartache and every feeling in between, Chicago theatre tells stories that evoke big emotions. Stories that take risks, inspire awe, ask tough questions – and dare audiences to do the same. Through Broadway musicals or storefront plays and improv, the energy of the city comes alive in our theaters. And with a diverse collection of over 250 dynamic theaters throughout our neighborhoods, there’s always a seat waiting for you...The Year of Chicago Theatre will also encourage dialog within Chicago’s theatre and philanthropic communities around inclusion and equity issues – and will seek to expand the geographic scope of Chicago theatre, especially on the city’s south and west sides."
Sandra Marquez - photo credit Joe Mazza
We also welcome to the show an important member of the theatre community, actress and director Sandra Marquez. Most recently we saw her brilliant direction of Isaac Gomez's play, "La Ruta" (episode 89) and her wonderful performance in Jen Silverman's "The Roommate" with Ora Jones. Marquez is a longtime member of Teatro Vista, the only equity Latino theatre company in the midwest. She has also been a member of the Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble since 2016. She is on the faculty at Northwestern University, teaching acting and voice. She is in rehearsal to play Nora in Steppenwolf's production of "A Doll's House, Part 2". Previews start Jan. 31. Can't wait to see her in this.
Hear Sandra and Mark's takes on what makes theatre here so special. "We are doing new work all the time, everyone supporting and pushing each other to do gutsy and innovative work...We have more world premieres than anywhere else."
Chicago Theatre Week is coming up from Feb. 7 - 17, with theatres of all sizes offering tickets from $15 to $30. Click on this link for a complete schedule of some really great shows.
Learn about Mark's fascinating job at DCASE, which presents theatre, music, art, and other mostly free cultural events to 28 million people annually and awards grants across a wide spectrum of the arts. One of his goals is to encourage more support for the vitality of Chicago arts organizations, financially and otherwise.
Hear some fascinating stories about Mark and Sandra's backgrounds and other interests. As in Mark is a drummer and Sandra once tried to join a convent. And you don't want to miss Mark's story about pretending to be a celebrity so he could sit in the actual Booth One at the Pump Room back in the day.
Kiss of Death: Marc Hauser
World-renowned photographer Marc Hauser was a friend and a guest on our show. Read about him in Mark Brown's excellent obituary for the Chicago Sun-Times, which surprisingly quotes Marc's Booth One interview. He was a remarkable talent and character. We will all miss him. Here is a link to our interview with him. If you check out the show notes, you will see several of his iconic images. The photo above is Marc with Gary and Roscoe in his studio.

We are thrilled to be part of the launch of the “Year of Chicago Theatre”, helmed by the Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events (DCASE) Commisioner, Mark Kelly.

Mark at the Chicago Jazz Festival

Mark joined us to talk about this first-ever City initiative that is “calling on the world to recognize the power of Chicago Theatre.” Partnering with the League of Chicago Theatres and all of the individual theatres, the goal is: “to be a Chicagoan, you are welcome into a Chicago Theatre.”

From the City’s press release: “To truly fall in love with Chicago, you must go to our theaters. This is where the city bares its fearless soul. From joy to heartache and every feeling in between, Chicago theatre tells stories that evoke big emotions. Stories that take risks, inspire awe, ask tough questions – and dare audiences to do the same. Through Broadway musicals or storefront plays and improv, the energy of the city comes alive in our theaters. And with a diverse collection of over 250 dynamic theaters throughout our neighborhoods, there’s always a seat waiting for you…The Year of Chicago Theatre will also encourage dialog within Chicago’s theatre and philanthropic communities around inclusion and equity issues – and will seek to expand the geographic scope of Chicago theatre, especially on the city’s south and west sides.”

Sandra Marquez – photo credit Joe Mazza

We also welcome to the show an important member of the theatre community, actress and director Sandra Marquez. Most recently we saw her brilliant direction of Isaac Gomez’s play, “La Ruta” (episode 89) and her wonderful performance in Jen Silverman’s “The Roommate” with Ora Jones. Marquez is a longtime member of Teatro Vista, the only equity Latino theatre company in the midwest. She has also been a member of the Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble since 2016. She is on the faculty at Northwestern University, teaching acting and voice. She is in rehearsal to play Nora in Steppenwolf’s production of “A Doll’s House, Part 2”. Previews start Jan. 31. Can’t wait to see her in this.

Hear Sandra and Mark’s takes on what makes theatre here so special. “We are doing new work all the time, everyone supporting and pushing each other to do gutsy and innovative work…We have more world premieres than anywhere else.”

Chicago Theatre Week is coming up from Feb. 7 – 17, with theatres of all sizes offering tickets from $15 to $30. Click on this link for a complete schedule of some really great shows.

Learn about Mark’s fascinating job at DCASE, which presents theatre, music, art, and other mostly free cultural events to 28 million people annually and awards grants across a wide spectrum of the arts. One of his goals is to encourage more support for the vitality of Chicago arts organizations, financially and otherwise.

Hear some fascinating stories about Mark and Sandra’s backgrounds and other interests. As in Mark is a drummer and Sandra once tried to join a convent. And you don’t want to miss Mark’s story about pretending to be a celebrity so he could sit in the actual Booth One at the Pump Room back in the day.

Kiss of Death: Marc Hauser

World-renowned photographer Marc Hauser was a friend and a guest on our show. Read about him in Mark Brown’s excellent obituary for the Chicago Sun-Times, which surprisingly quotes Marc’s Booth One interview. He was a remarkable talent and character. We will all miss him. Here is a link to our interview with him. If you check out the show notes, you will see several of his iconic images. The photo above is Marc with Gary and Roscoe in his studio.

]]>We are thrilled to be part of the launch of the "Year of Chicago Theatre", helmed by the Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events (DCASE) Commisioner, Mark Kelly. Mark at the Chicago Jazz Festival

We are thrilled to be part of the launch of the "Year of Chicago Theatre", helmed by the Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events (DCASE) Commisioner, Mark Kelly.

Mark at the Chicago Jazz Festival

Mark joined us to talk about this first-ever City initiative that is "calling on the world to recognize the power of Chicago Theatre." Partnering with the League of Chicago Theatres and all of the individual theatres, the goal is: "to be a Chicagoan, you are welcome into a Chicago Theatre."

From the City's press release: "To truly fall in love with Chicago, you must go to our theaters. This is where the city bares its fearless soul. From joy to heartache and every feeling in between, Chicago theatre tells stories that evoke big emotions. Stories that take risks, inspire awe, ask tough questions – and dare audiences to do the same. Through Broadway musicals or storefront plays and improv, the energy of the city comes alive in our theaters. And with a diverse collection of over 250 dynamic theaters throughout our neighborhoods, there’s always a seat waiting for you...The Year of Chicago Theatre will also encourage dialog within Chicago’s theatre and philanthropic communities around inclusion and equity issues – and will seek to expand the geographic scope of Chicago theatre, especially on the city’s south and west sides."

Sandra Marquez - photo credit Joe Mazza

We also welcome to the show an important member of the theatre community, actress and director Sandra Marquez. Most recently we saw her brilliant direction of Isaac Gomez's play, "La Ruta" (episode 89) and her wonderful performance in Jen Silverman's "The Roommate" with Ora Jones. Marquez is a longtime member of Teatro Vista, the only equity Latino theatre company in the midwest. She has also been a member of the Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble since 2016. She is on the faculty at Northwestern University, teaching acting and voice. She is in rehearsal to play Nora in Steppenwolf's production of "A Doll's House, Part 2". Previews start Jan. 31. Can't wait to see her in this.

Hear Sandra and Mark's takes on what makes theatre here so special. "We are doing new work all the time, everyone supporting and pushing each other to do gutsy and innovative work...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau58:14Renaissance Man – Artist & Illustrator Tom Bachtell – Episode 90https://booth-one.com/2018/12/renaissance-man-artist-illustrator-tom-bachtell-episode-90/
Mon, 24 Dec 2018 02:54:09 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3482Join us in a great conversation with brilliant artist and illustrator Tom Bachtell. Learn how this self-taught artist became the best thing about the New Yorker's "Talk of the Town". He is still doing stunning caricatures and illustrations for the magazine 23 years later. Check out this wonderful piece Neil Steinberg recently wrote about Tom in the Sun-Times.
Tom tells us that "People are bundles of ambiguity. That's what I try to capture in portraits."

Join us in a great conversation with brilliant artist and illustrator Tom Bachtell. Learn how this self-taught artist became the best thing about the New Yorker’s “Talk of the Town”. He is still doing stunning caricatures and illustrations for the magazine 23 years later. Check out this wonderful piece Neil Steinberg recently wrote about Tom in the Sun-Times.

Tom tells us that “People are bundles of ambiguity. That’s what I try to capture in portraits.”

]]>Join us in a great conversation with brilliant artist and illustrator Tom Bachtell. Learn how this self-taught artist became the best thing about the New Yorker's "Talk of the Town". He is still doing stunning caricatures and illustrations for the mag...

Join us in a great conversation with brilliant artist and illustrator Tom Bachtell. Learn how this self-taught artist became the best thing about the New Yorker's "Talk of the Town". He is still doing stunning caricatures and illustrations for the magazine 23 years later. Check out this wonderful piece Neil Steinberg recently wrote about Tom in the Sun-Times.
Tom tells us that "People are bundles of ambiguity. That's what I try to capture in portraits."

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau52:45To Never Forget – La Ruta – Isaac Gomez & Karen Rodriguez – Episode 89https://booth-one.com/2018/12/to-never-forget-la-ruta-isaac-gomez-karen-rodriguez/
Sun, 16 Dec 2018 20:36:21 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3438Rising stars Isaac Gomez & Karen Rodriguez join us in the Booth to talk about the rehearsal process for their world premiere production of Isaac's play, La Ruta, at Steppenwolf Theatre. Previews begin December 13 and the show runs through January 27. We are going to press opening on December 20 and cannot wait! This amazing project features a number of Steppenwolf debuts: It is Isaac's as a playwright, ensemble member Sandra Marquez's as a director, and Karen's as a new ensemble member!
Director Sandra Marquez with Karen Rodriguez
Isaac tells us that the play is "about a community of women who are living in the wake of unspeakable loss...About how resiliance takes form in various capacities and directions for each of them." La Ruta is a bus that takes women to the U.S. owned factories in Ciudad Juarez. Along this route, many women have disappeared, been attacked, and murdered.
Steppenwolf Poster
The eight Latina actresses in this play all represent real women Isaac has interviewed. As he describes it, "I made a promise to these women that their stories would be heard by as many people as humanly possible, and through this world premiere at Steppenwolf, we are one step closer to keeping that promise -- to bear witness and carry their stories forward. As a queer Mexicano from the border, I owe my entire existence to Mexican women. This play is for them. Para todas. Para siempre.”
Gomez grew up in the border town of El Paso and Ciudad Juarez. Though he lived on the El Paso side, much of his extended family lived and still lives in Juarez. He visited Mexico every weekend. He was brought up by two "superheroes, who gave all of themselves when they had nothing to begin with."
Gomez's motivation to write plays is to never forget. He wants to never forget the things that happen to him each day, the callouses on his father's hands when he would cook fajitas, the stories of the women he met in Juarez...
Karen Rodriguez is also from a Mexican border town, Matamoros, Tamaulipas, which is directly across the border from Brownsville, Texas. Her family moved for a time to Kokomo, Indiana because of her father's job. She spoke no English at that time. They moved back to Mexico and she applied to the University of Texas, Austin to major in marketing and business. She got interested in theatre and decided to double major. She met Isaac in a theatre class and they became best friends.
Together, they moved to Chicago 5 years ago. Karen inspires Isaac's writing in many ways, both as a person and an actress. Gomez talks about her "willingness to go there, to explore unapologetically, unsure of the result." Isaac's plays inspire her work too. They "bring out the best in each other." You will hear the chemistry of their amazing collaboration in this interview.
Kiss of Death: Kitty O'Neil
Hear about the fascinating life of stuntwoman extraordinaire, Kitty O'Neil. She was absolutely fearless. And what makes her daredevil feats even more impressive, she was deaf. What a story!

Rising stars Isaac Gomez & Karen Rodriguez join us in the Booth to talk about the rehearsal process for their world premiere production of Isaac’s play, La Ruta, at Steppenwolf Theatre. Previews begin December 13 and the show runs through January 27. We are going to press opening on December 20 and cannot wait! This amazing project features a number of Steppenwolf debuts: It is Isaac’s as a playwright, ensemble member Sandra Marquez’s as a director, and Karen’s as a new ensemble member!

Director Sandra Marquez with Karen Rodriguez

Isaac tells us that the play is “about a community of women who are living in the wake of unspeakable loss…About how resiliance takes form in various capacities and directions for each of them.” La Ruta is a bus that takes women to the U.S. owned factories in Ciudad Juarez. Along this route, many women have disappeared, been attacked, and murdered.

Steppenwolf Poster

The eight Latina actresses in this play all represent real women Isaac has interviewed. As he describes it, “I made a promise to these women that their stories would be heard by as many people as humanly possible, and through this world premiere at Steppenwolf, we are one step closer to keeping that promise — to bear witness and carry their stories forward. As a queer Mexicano from the border, I owe my entire existence to Mexican women. This play is for them. Para todas. Para siempre.”

Gomez grew up in the border town of El Paso and Ciudad Juarez. Though he lived on the El Paso side, much of his extended family lived and still lives in Juarez. He visited Mexico every weekend. He was brought up by two “superheroes, who gave all of themselves when they had nothing to begin with.”

Gomez’s motivation to write plays is to never forget. He wants to never forget the things that happen to him each day, the callouses on his father’s hands when he would cook fajitas, the stories of the women he met in Juarez…

Karen Rodriguez is also from a Mexican border town, Matamoros, Tamaulipas, which is directly across the border from Brownsville, Texas. Her family moved for a time to Kokomo, Indiana because of her father’s job. She spoke no English at that time. They moved back to Mexico and she applied to the University of Texas, Austin to major in marketing and business. She got interested in theatre and decided to double major. She met Isaac in a theatre class and they became best friends.

Together, they moved to Chicago 5 years ago. Karen inspires Isaac’s writing in many ways, both as a person and an actress. Gomez talks about her “willingness to go there, to explore unapologetically, unsure of the result.” Isaac’s plays inspire her work too. They “bring out the best in each other.” You will hear the chemistry of their amazing collaboration in this interview.

Kiss of Death: Kitty O’Neil

Hear about the fascinating life of stuntwoman extraordinaire, Kitty O’Neil. She was absolutely fearless. And what makes her daredevil feats even more impressive, she was deaf. What a story!

]]>Rising stars Isaac Gomez & Karen Rodriguez join us in the Booth to talk about the rehearsal process for their world premiere production of Isaac's play, La Ruta, at Steppenwolf Theatre. Previews begin December 13 and the show runs through January 27.

Rising stars Isaac Gomez & Karen Rodriguez join us in the Booth to talk about the rehearsal process for their world premiere production of Isaac's play, La Ruta, at Steppenwolf Theatre. Previews begin December 13 and the show runs through January 27. We are going to press opening on December 20 and cannot wait! This amazing project features a number of Steppenwolf debuts: It is Isaac's as a playwright, ensemble member Sandra Marquez's as a director, and Karen's as a new ensemble member!

Director Sandra Marquez with Karen Rodriguez

Isaac tells us that the play is "about a community of women who are living in the wake of unspeakable loss...About how resiliance takes form in various capacities and directions for each of them." La Ruta is a bus that takes women to the U.S. owned factories in Ciudad Juarez. Along this route, many women have disappeared, been attacked, and murdered.

Steppenwolf Poster

The eight Latina actresses in this play all represent real women Isaac has interviewed. As he describes it, "I made a promise to these women that their stories would be heard by as many people as humanly possible,]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau58:43Nena’s Notes – Fashion Expert & Writer Nena Ivon – Episode 88https://booth-one.com/2018/11/nenas-notes-fashion-expert-writer-nena-ivon-episode-88/
Tue, 13 Nov 2018 05:50:37 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3394Fashion world icon Nena Ivon joins us in the Booth to talk about her astounding career, her varied interests in all things cultural, and so much more!
A legend in Chicago, Nena Ivon was the fashion and special events director at Saks Fifth Avenue from 1956 to 2009, where among other things, she produced all of the fashion shows, handled publicity, styled the windows and dressed the mannequins.
She has worked with hundreds of the leading fashion designers and style icons of the 20th and 21st centuries, including many great models. Nena talked about the quality one-on-one time she got to spend with these designers, picking them up at the airport when they came to town for Saks events.
She is currently a member of the executive board of the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum, and a faculty member in Fashion Studies at Columbia College Chicago (where the Nena Ivon Collection is archived).
She is also the author of a marvelous blog called Nena's Notes. We love the way she organized the blog. As you will learn in more detail on the episode, each day of the week has a different theme to reflect things she's passionate about. Monday is for profiles of people, starting with a Proust-like questionnaire, then an interview. A favorite topic for her is how people reinvent themselves when they leave one career, such as the models she worked with. Tuesday is for book reviews. Wednesday is musings, which can go in a number of different directions. Thursday is for collections, not just of fashion, but also other beautiful objects. Friday is for Fashion. Spotlights on designers she's worked with or the current season. Check it out. There is something for everyone. We are excited that she is working on a podcast and a book!
Amazingly enough, Nena has a direct connection to the real Booth One and the impetus for our show. Back in the day at Saks, they would hold two fashion shows a week at The Pump Room at lunch time. Then there were conversations in Booth One with stars, Broadway tryout cast members, authors, and local personalities. Nena led a number of these interviews. Oh, how we wish those were recorded! Speaking of Booth One, she is a huge fan of theatre, ballet, and opera. Her favorite medium is musical theatre!
Learn who Nena's favorite designers are, including the great Bob Mackie, who she says is a brilliant designer of clothes as well as costumes. Gary tells Nena that he has never missed an episode of Project Runway. Her favorite designer to come out of that show is Christian Seriano and she tells us why.
Check out this glam photo of Nena with Christian LaCroix. The photographer, Robert Carl, said of the picture, "“I love this shot of two sophisticates, Nena Ivon and Christian Lacroix. It reminds me of Grant Wood’s “American Gothic,” even though she is the high priestess of Chicago fashion and he is the darling of Paris.”
We talk about the new Library of Congress National Screening Room, which has films from 1890-1999. They are being digitized so we can all check them out. The goal is to have their vast collection reach the largest possible audience.
Nena talks about Guo Pei's collection at Paris fashion week. Wow. Check out her stunning and show-stopping designs on her website.
Kiss of Death: Dorcas B. Reilley
As you know, we end every episode with a celebration of a life. Our New York correspondent and good friend, Robbie Young, suggested Dorcas B. Reilley, the inventor of green bean casserole. She was a supervisor in Campbell's Soup test kitchen and led the group to come up with a great dish that could be made with things already in most people's pantries. Made with Campbell's Cream of Mushroom soup, it offered "convenience with a touch of glamour." Here is the original recipe, still being made today. It is estimated that it will be served in 20 million homes this coming Thanksgiving. Our producer's grandmother added some Velveeta, which made it even better.Fashion world icon Nena Ivon joins us in the Booth to talk about her astounding career, her varied interests in all things cultural, and so much more!

A legend in Chicago, Nena Ivon was the fashion and special events director at Saks Fifth Avenue from 1956 to 2009, where among other things, she produced all of the fashion shows, handled publicity, styled the windows and dressed the mannequins.

She has worked with hundreds of the leading fashion designers and style icons of the 20th and 21st centuries, including many great models. Nena talked about the quality one-on-one time she got to spend with these designers, picking them up at the airport when they came to town for Saks events.

She is also the author of a marvelous blog called Nena’s Notes. We love the way she organized the blog. As you will learn in more detail on the episode, each day of the week has a different theme to reflect things she’s passionate about. Monday is for profiles of people, starting with a Proust-like questionnaire, then an interview. A favorite topic for her is how people reinvent themselves when they leave one career, such as the models she worked with. Tuesday is for book reviews. Wednesday is musings, which can go in a number of different directions. Thursday is for collections, not just of fashion, but also other beautiful objects. Friday is for Fashion. Spotlights on designers she’s worked with or the current season. Check it out. There is something for everyone. We are excited that she is working on a podcast and a book!

Amazingly enough, Nena has a direct connection to the real Booth One and the impetus for our show. Back in the day at Saks, they would hold two fashion shows a week at The Pump Room at lunch time. Then there were conversations in Booth One with stars, Broadway tryout cast members, authors, and local personalities. Nena led a number of these interviews. Oh, how we wish those were recorded! Speaking of Booth One, she is a huge fan of theatre, ballet, and opera. Her favorite medium is musical theatre!

Learn who Nena’s favorite designers are, including the great Bob Mackie, who she says is a brilliant designer of clothes as well as costumes. Gary tells Nena that he has never missed an episode of Project Runway. Her favorite designer to come out of that show is Christian Seriano and she tells us why.

Check out this glam photo of Nena with Christian LaCroix. The photographer, Robert Carl, said of the picture, ““I love this shot of two sophisticates, Nena Ivon and Christian Lacroix. It reminds me of Grant Wood’s “American Gothic,” even though she is the high priestess of Chicago fashion and he is the darling of Paris.”

We talk about the new Library of Congress National Screening Room, which has films from 1890-1999. They are being digitized so we can all check them out. The goal is to have their vast collection reach the largest possible audience.

As you know, we end every episode with a celebration of a life. Our New York correspondent and good friend, Robbie Young, suggested Dorcas B. Reilley, the inventor of green bean casserole. She was a supervisor in Campbell’s Soup test kitchen and led the group to come up with a great dish that could be made with things already in most people’s pantries. Made with Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup, it offered “convenience with a touch of glamour.” Here is the original recipe, still being made today. It is estimated that it will be served in 20 million homes this coming Thanksgiving. Our producer’s grandmother added some Velveeta, which made it even better. Read her story here.

]]>Fashion world icon Nena Ivon joins us in the Booth to talk about her astounding career, her varied interests in all things cultural, and so much more! - A legend in Chicago, Nena Ivon was the fashion and special events director at Saks Fifth Avenue fr...Fashion world icon Nena Ivon joins us in the Booth to talk about her astounding career, her varied interests in all things cultural, and so much more!

A legend in Chicago, Nena Ivon was the fashion and special events director at Saks Fifth Avenue from 1956 to 2009, where among other things, she produced all of the fashion shows, handled publicity, styled the windows and dressed the mannequins.

She has worked with hundreds of the leading fashion designers and style icons of the 20th and 21st centuries, including many great models. Nena talked about the quality one-on-one time she got to spend with these designers, picking them up at the airport when they came to town for Saks events.

She is also the author of a marvelous blog called Nena's Notes. We love the way she organized the blog. As you will learn in more detail on the episode, each day of the week has a different theme to reflect things she's passionate about. Monday is for profiles of people, starting with a Proust-like questionnaire, then an interview. A favorite topic for her is how people reinvent themselves when they leave one career, such as the models she worked with. Tuesday is for book reviews. Wednesday is musings, which can go in a number of different directions. Thursday is for collections, not just of fashion, but also other beautiful objects. Friday is for Fashion. Spotlights on designers she's worked with or the current season. Check it out. There is something for everyone. We are excited that she is working on a podcast and a book!

Amazingly enough, Nena has a direct connection to the real Booth One and the impetus for our show. Back in the day at Saks, they would hold two fashion shows a week at The Pump Room at lunch time. Then there were conversations in Booth One with stars, Broadway tryout cast members, authors, and local personalities. Nena led a number of these interviews. Oh, how we wish those were recorded! Speaking of Booth One, she is a huge fan of theatre, ballet, and opera. Her favorite medium is musical theatre!

Learn who Nena's favorite designers are, including the great Bob Mackie, who she says is a brilliant designer of clothes as well as costumes. Gary tells Nena that he has never missed an episode of Project Runway. Her favorite designer to come out of that show is Christian Seriano and she tells us why.

Check out this glam photo of Nena with Christian LaCroix. The photographer, Robert Carl, said of the picture, "“I love this shot of two sophisticates, Nena Ivon and Christian Lacroix. It reminds me of Grant Wood’s “American Gothic,” even though she is the high priestess of Chicago fashion and he is the darling of Paris.”

We talk about the new Library of Congress National Screening Room, which has films from 1890-1999. They are being digitized so we can all check them out. The goal is to have their vast collection reach the largest possible audience.

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau51:53Always Say Yes…-Actor Francis Guinan – Episode 87https://booth-one.com/2018/10/always-say-yes-actor-francis-guinan-episode-87/
Tue, 30 Oct 2018 01:12:18 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3348Gary and Frank welcome one of the finest actors we've ever had the pleasure to meet to Booth One! Francis Guinan has been with the Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble since 1979 and has appeared in a remarkable number of shows. Check out the list of past productions on his Steppenwolf bio. We have seen many of them and his work is simply not to be missed.
Speaking of not to be missed...he is currently appearing in a world premiere of Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Bruce Norris's Downstate alongside a breathtaking ensemble cast. Beautifully staged by Tony award winner Pam MacKinnon, it is a co-production with the National Theatre of Great Britain and stars several actors from there, including the marvelous Cecilia Noble. The Steppenwolf ensemble members (Glenn David, K. Todd Freeman, Francis Guinan, and Tim Hopper) are all just astonishing. Our good friend, Laura Glenn is Downstate's fabulous stage manager. The production will travel to London in the spring of 2019. Here are a couple of Downstate production shots:
Fran's first show with Steppenwolf was The Real Inspector Hound. Learn more about his illustrious career there in this article from 2009. One of our favorite recent performances was in The Rembrandt, working opposite his dear friend, the late John Mahoney. Of his relationship with John, he told us they had worked together s0 often and that their 30 years of shared history was "present in every glance." Fran said John was immensely generous on stage and off...Check out this Chicago Tonight interview with John and Fran talking about the last show they would do together.
A shot with the the great Audrey Francis in You Got Older:
Francis talks about the magic that only happens in a theater. How sometimes you can say a line to an audience of 300 or more people and then there is total silence. A collective holding of breath. And that feeling is not like anything else. He talks about the vibrance and truth of the Chicago style that goes back to the Compass Players. He thanks "the Godfather of Chicago Theatre, Sheldon Patinkin for teaching so many people in our community to "Always Say Yes." That it's not about you. It is all to the benefit of the story. Whatever your fellow actor throws out there, accept it and play that moment, even if it's very different from the night before.
Kiss of Death: Carol Hall
Carol Hall, a songwriter who wrote the music and lyrics for "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas", which was about a brothel called the Chicken Ranch (because customers often paid with chickens), died on October 11 at age 82. Here is an excerpt from her NYT obit:"Staying behind the scenes remained her preference. She wrote three songs for “Free to Be … You and Me,” the 1972 children’s album (and television special) conceived by Marlo Thomas. One was “It’s All Right to Cry,” performed by Rosey Grier, a former professional football player. She also wrote for Sesame Street and Barbra Streisand.
Gary and Frank welcome one of the finest actors we’ve ever had the pleasure to meet to Booth One! Francis Guinan has been with the Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble since 1979 and has appeared in a remarkable number of shows. Check out the list of past productions on his Steppenwolf bio. We have seen many of them and his work is simply not to be missed.

Speaking of not to be missed…he is currently appearing in a world premiere of Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Bruce Norris’s Downstate alongside a breathtaking ensemble cast. Beautifully staged by Tony award winner Pam MacKinnon, it is a co-production with the National Theatre of Great Britain and stars several actors from there, including the marvelous Cecilia Noble. The Steppenwolf ensemble members (Glenn David, K. Todd Freeman, Francis Guinan, and Tim Hopper) are all just astonishing. Our good friend, Laura Glenn is Downstate’s fabulous stage manager. The production will travel to London in the spring of 2019. Here are a couple of Downstate production shots:

Fran’s first show with Steppenwolf was The Real Inspector Hound. Learn more about his illustrious career there in this article from 2009. One of our favorite recent performances was in The Rembrandt, working opposite his dear friend, the late John Mahoney. Of his relationship with John, he told us they had worked together s0 often and that their 30 years of shared history was “present in every glance.” Fran said John was immensely generous on stage and off…Check out this Chicago Tonight interview with John and Fran talking about the last show they would do together.

A shot with the the great Audrey Francis in You Got Older:

Francis talks about the magic that only happens in a theater. How sometimes you can say a line to an audience of 300 or more people and then there is total silence. A collective holding of breath. And that feeling is not like anything else. He talks about the vibrance and truth of the Chicago style that goes back to the Compass Players. He thanks “the Godfather of Chicago Theatre, Sheldon Patinkin for teaching so many people in our community to “Always Say Yes.” That it’s not about you. It is all to the benefit of the story. Whatever your fellow actor throws out there, accept it and play that moment, even if it’s very different from the night before.

Kiss of Death: Carol Hall

Carol Hall, a songwriter who wrote the music and lyrics for “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”, which was about a brothel called the Chicken Ranch (because customers often paid with chickens), died on October 11 at age 82. Here is an excerpt from her NYT obit:“Staying behind the scenes remained her preference. She wrote three songs for “Free to Be … You and Me,” the 1972 children’s album (and television special) conceived by Marlo Thomas. One was “It’s All Right to Cry,” performed by Rosey Grier, a former professional football player. She also wrote for Sesame Street and Barbra Streisand.

]]>Gary and Frank welcome one of the finest actors we've ever had the pleasure to meet to Booth One! Francis Guinan has been with the Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble since 1979 and has appeared in a remarkable number of shows.Gary and Frank welcome one of the finest actors we've ever had the pleasure to meet to Booth One! Francis Guinan has been with the Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble since 1979 and has appeared in a remarkable number of shows. Check out the list of past productions on his Steppenwolf bio. We have seen many of them and his work is simply not to be missed.

Speaking of not to be missed...he is currently appearing in a world premiere of Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Bruce Norris's Downstate alongside a breathtaking ensemble cast. Beautifully staged by Tony award winner Pam MacKinnon, it is a co-production with the National Theatre of Great Britain and stars several actors from there, including the marvelous Cecilia Noble. The Steppenwolf ensemble members (Glenn David, K. Todd Freeman, Francis Guinan, and Tim Hopper) are all just astonishing. Our good friend, Laura Glenn is Downstate's fabulous stage manager. The production will travel to London in the spring of 2019. Here are a couple of Downstate production shots:

Fran's first show with Steppenwolf was The Real Inspector Hound. Learn more about his illustrious career there in this article from 2009. One of our favorite recent performances was in The Rembrandt, working opposite his dear friend, the late John Mahoney. Of his relationship with John, he told us they had worked together s0 often and that their 30 years of shared history was "present in every glance." Fran said John was immensely generous on stage and off...Check out this Chicago Tonight interview with John and Fran talking about the last show they would do together.

A shot with the the great Audrey Francis in You Got Older:

Francis talks about the magic that only happens in a theater. How sometimes you can say a line to an audience of 300 or more people and then there is total silence. A collective holding of breath. And that feeling is not like anything else. He talks about the vibrance and truth of the Chicago style that goes back to the Compass Players. He thanks "the Godfather of Chicago Theatre, Sheldon Patinkin for teaching so many people in our community to "Always Say Yes." That it's not about you. It is all to the benefit of the story. Whatever your fellow actor throws out there, accept it and play that moment, even if it's very different from the night before.

Kiss of Death: Carol Hall

Carol Hall, a songwriter who wrote the music and lyrics for "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas", which was about a brothel called the Chicken Ra...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau58:17A Film Report from TIFF – Frank and Dan at the Toronto International Film Festival – Episode 86https://booth-one.com/2018/10/a-film-report-from-tiff-frank-and-dan-at-the-toronto-international-film-festival-episode-86/
Thu, 11 Oct 2018 00:10:30 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3312Booth One's Frank Tourangeau and his husband, filmmaker Dan Pal, who serves as Booth One's film correspondent, have just returned from a trip to the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and have much to report! They have been going to film festivals for many years, including several trips to Telluride, Sundance, Toronto, and our very own Chicago Fest. The Chicago Film Festival is happening from October 10 through October 21 at the AMC River East. They also share secrets about how to have a Booth One experience at a festival!
Let's cut to the chase. Dan and Frank both LOVED a movie called Roma, written and directed by Alfonso Cuaron, which won the prestigious Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival. A story about a domestic worker in Mexico City working for an upper middle-class family, it is said to be the most personal work of Cuaron's career. And also his best. It has a 98% Rotten Tomatoes rating. Dan, who says it's the best film he's seen this year, thinks it is a shoe-in for Best Foreign Film and also has a chance to win Best Picture. The actress playing the housekeeper has never been in a movie before. So many reasons we can't wait to see it!
Frank and Dan saw 14 films in 5 days. The most thrilling thing for them is getting to see movies before anyone else does. Every director was there and did a Q & A. Lots of big time actors too.
They shared their reviews and impressions about all the movies they saw, including:
Ben is Back, directed by Peter Hedges and starring Julia Roberts & Lucas Hedges.
Vox Lux starring Natalie Portman and Jude Law. (They did not like it.)
If Beale Street Could Talk, based on a James Baldwin novel, adapted and directed by Oscar winner Barry Jenkins, made its world premiere at Toronto. Dan and Frank say it is an absolute stand-out. Very powerful and more dialogue driven than Moonlight. The score by Nicolas Britell is "spectacular!" One of the stars, Chicago actress Kiki Lane, was in Booth One favorite Byhalia, Mississippi and part of the ensemble of Definition Theatre Company. We are so excited for you. Go Kiki, go!
While they weren't able to score tickets to A Star is Born, here's a fun photo of the stars in Toronto:
Gary announces that sadly, the wonderful show public access television show, Theater Talk, has ended after 25 years. Because its station wanted to take over editorial control. :( And just after it won an Emmy award! Everyone who's anyone has appeared on Susan Haskins' great interview show, which we think has a lot in common with Booth One. Its last season was distributed to more than a hundred public television stations nationwide. Gary talks about an episode featuring James Grissom, an author who has written a great book called Follies of God: Tennessee Williams and the Women of the Fog, which is based on his many, many hours of conversation with the playwright about his close relationships with a number of women who influenced him.
Other films that are discussed in this episode:
The Hummingbird Project starring Jesse Eisenberg
The Front Runner with Hugh Jackman as politician Gary Hart
Hotel Mumbai featuring Dev Patel and Armie Hammer. This American-Australian thriller was clearly Frank and Dan's front-running favorite.
Gary and Frank attended opening night of Indecent at Victory Gardens Theatre, the Paula Vogal play with music, directed by local favorite Gary Griffin. Though they had a few reservations about the production, it's recommended as a piece of theatrical ingenuity and depth. And the Running now through November 4.
Kiss of Death
Andre Blay, who revolutionized the film industry by introducing the first consumer grade full-length movies on videocassette. His Magnetic Video Corporation created the Video Club of America where subscribers could buy a movie for about half the going retail price in stores. By 1987, home video was generating more revenue than movie-theater ticket sales. Mr. Blay was 81. Full Obit here.
Booth One’s Frank Tourangeau and his husband, filmmaker Dan Pal, who serves as Booth One’s film correspondent, have just returned from a trip to the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and have much to report! They have been going to film festivals for many years, including several trips to Telluride, Sundance, Toronto, and our very own Chicago Fest. The Chicago Film Festival is happening from October 10 through October 21 at the AMC River East. They also share secrets about how to have a Booth One experience at a festival!

Let’s cut to the chase. Dan and Frank both LOVED a movie called Roma, written and directed by Alfonso Cuaron, which won the prestigious Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival. A story about a domestic worker in Mexico City working for an upper middle-class family, it is said to be the most personal work of Cuaron’s career. And also his best. It has a 98% Rotten Tomatoes rating. Dan, who says it’s the best film he’s seen this year, thinks it is a shoe-in for Best Foreign Film and also has a chance to win Best Picture. The actress playing the housekeeper has never been in a movie before. So many reasons we can’t wait to see it!

Frank and Dan saw 14 films in 5 days. The most thrilling thing for them is getting to see movies before anyone else does. Every director was there and did a Q & A. Lots of big time actors too.

They shared their reviews and impressions about all the movies they saw, including:

Vox Lux starring Natalie Portman and Jude Law. (They did not like it.)

If Beale Street Could Talk,based on a James Baldwin novel, adapted and directed by Oscar winner Barry Jenkins, made its world premiere at Toronto. Dan and Frank say it is an absolute stand-out. Very powerful and more dialogue driven than Moonlight. The score by Nicolas Britell is “spectacular!” One of the stars, Chicago actress Kiki Lane, was in Booth One favorite Byhalia, Mississippi and part of the ensemble of Definition Theatre Company. We are so excited for you. Go Kiki, go!

While they weren’t able to score tickets to A Star is Born, here’s a fun photo of the stars in Toronto:

Gary announces that sadly, the wonderful show public access television show, Theater Talk, has ended after 25 years. Because its station wanted to take over editorial control. 🙁 And just after it won an Emmy award! Everyone who’s anyone has appeared on Susan Haskins‘ great interview show, which we think has a lot in common with Booth One. Its last season was distributed to more than a hundred public television stations nationwide. Gary talks about an episode featuring James Grissom, an author who has written a great book called Follies of God: Tennessee Williams and the Women of the Fog, which is based on his many, many hours of conversation with the playwright about his close relationships with a number of women who influenced him.

Gary and Frank attended opening night of Indecent at Victory Gardens Theatre, the Paula Vogal play with music, directed by local favorite Gary Griffin. Though they had a few reservations about the production, it’s recommended as a piece of theatrical ingenuity and depth. And the Running now through November 4.

Kiss of DeathAndre Blay, who revolutionized the film industry by introducing the first consumer grade full-length movies on videocassette. His Magnetic Video Corporation created the Video Club of America where subscribers could buy a movie for about half the going retail price in stores. By 1987, home video was generating more revenue than movie-theater ticket sales. Mr. Blay was 81. Full Obit here.

]]>Booth One's Frank Tourangeau and his husband, filmmaker Dan Pal, who serves as Booth One's film correspondent, have just returned from a trip to the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and have much to report!Booth One's Frank Tourangeau and his husband, filmmaker Dan Pal, who serves as Booth One's film correspondent, have just returned from a trip to the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and have much to report! They have been going to film festivals for many years, including several trips to Telluride, Sundance, Toronto, and our very own Chicago Fest. The Chicago Film Festival is happening from October 10 through October 21 at the AMC River East. They also share secrets about how to have a Booth One experience at a festival!

Let's cut to the chase. Dan and Frank both LOVED a movie called Roma, written and directed by Alfonso Cuaron, which won the prestigious Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival. A story about a domestic worker in Mexico City working for an upper middle-class family, it is said to be the most personal work of Cuaron's career. And also his best. It has a 98% Rotten Tomatoes rating. Dan, who says it's the best film he's seen this year, thinks it is a shoe-in for Best Foreign Film and also has a chance to win Best Picture. The actress playing the housekeeper has never been in a movie before. So many reasons we can't wait to see it!

Frank and Dan saw 14 films in 5 days. The most thrilling thing for them is getting to see movies before anyone else does. Every director was there and did a Q & A. Lots of big time actors too.

They shared their reviews and impressions about all the movies they saw, including:

Vox Lux starring Natalie Portman and Jude Law. (They did not like it.)

If Beale Street Could Talk, based on a James Baldwin novel, adapted and directed by Oscar winner Barry Jenkins, made its world premiere at Toronto. Dan and Frank say it is an absolute stand-out. Very powerful and more dialogue driven than Moonlight. The score by Nicolas Britell is "spectacular!" One of the stars, Chicago actress Kiki Lane, was in Booth One favorite Byhalia, Mississippi and part of the ensemble of Definition Theatre Company. We are so excited for you. Go Kiki, go!

While they weren't able to score tickets to A Star is Born, here's a fun photo of the stars in Toronto:

Gary announces that sadly, the wonderful show public access television show, Theater Talk, has ended after 25 years. Because its station wanted to take over editorial control. :( And just after it won an Emmy award! Everyone who's anyone has appeared on Susan Haskins' great interview show, which we think has a lot in common with Booth One. Its last season was distributed to more than a hundred public television stations nationwide. Gary talks about an episode featuring James Grissom, an author who has written a great book called Follies of God: Tennessee Williams and the Women of the Fog, which is based on his many, many hours of conversation with the playwright about his close relationships with a number of women who influenced him.

Other films that are discussed in this episode:

The Hummingbird Project starring Jesse Eisenberg

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau55:33Life’s a Spell – Playwright and Librettist Jerre Dye – Episode 85https://booth-one.com/2018/09/lifes-a-spell-playwright-and-librettist-jerre-dye-episode-85/
Tue, 18 Sep 2018 01:14:08 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3289We welcome to the Booth this week the very talented and vibrant Jerre Dye. Recommended by a recent genius guest, Cecelia Wingate, Jerre is a Southerner by birth, having grown up in a small town in Mississippi. He is a playwright, actor, director and opera librettist, now living in Chicago. Fellow Mississippi playwright Beth Henley, whose play Crimes of the Heart earned her a Pulitzer Prize in 1981, praises his lyrical voice and distinctly Southern sensibilities, proclaiming him "a vibrant force in the American theater." Jerre's plays Cicada and Distance were both nominated for Joseph Jefferson awards.
First off, Frank tells us about seeing our friend Christine McHugh's one-woman play Parents Must Be Dead at the Greenhouse Theatre. By all accounts, the evening was a smashing success, with a full house and great audience response. Congratulations, Christine! We learn that the somewhat odd title refers to a friend of Christine's preference listing on a dating website. A bit maudlin, but at least he's honest.
Gary reminds our listeners that they can hear the Booth One crew interviewed on the Rick Kogan After Hours radio program on the WGN website. To listen to Rick's jaw-droppingly generous words about our show, click here.
Jerre takes us through his upbringing, his school days in Memphis, and his foray into acting in Hollywood. Big brother John Dye was his mentor, inspiration and role model. Highlights from his LA days include teaching Lily Tomlin how to clog(!?) and appearing as a dancer in the 1993 film of The Beverly Hillbillies with Jim Varney. His mentor at University of Memphis was Gloria Baxter, who was a classmate and friend of Frank Galati's at Northwestern.
As film fans, we love a well-written movie review, even if it's a pan. A couple of snippets from the the recent Keanu Reeves/Winona Ryder film reviewed in the NY Times: "'Destination Wedding' is torture."; "Nothing is as ailing as the screenplay." Almost worth going to see it just for the train wreck!
Jerre talks about becoming an opera librettist and how that writing style and process differs from, and is similar to, his playwrighting. He first got involved with opera six years ago doing a project in Memphis creating several different stories about the people who worked at a now-shuttered Sears distribution complex. His opera career has advanced from there to the point where he's now at work on a project called Taking Up Serpents with composer Kamala Sankaram to be presented by Washington National Opera at the Kennedy Center. The piece runs January 11-13 in Washington. Jerre has many other projects in the works and we're excited to see them come to life. As Jerre says, "Everybody's born with a story. It's like a spell."
In our Good Times and Bum Times segment, you'll hear about the first raw-meat vending machine now operational in upstate New York (a dream invention for carnivore Gary), and you'll meet Jessie, the foul-mouthed Macaw who shocked rescuers on a London roof top with a barrage of F-bombs.
Jerre and the boys play a little Chat Pack and we learn about Olympic dream events, books they would write, and least-favorite education courses they've taken. As always, this segment reveals some fascinating insight into our guest and hosts.
Kiss Of Death:
Nabi Tajima, recognized as the World's Oldest Person
Born in 1900 in Araki, Japan, Ms. Tajima was the last known person born in the 19th century, and one of the few people who could recall a time before World War I. She had nine children and 160 descendents, including great-great-great grandchildren. Nabi Tajima was 117. Read the full Washington Post article here.
We welcome to the Booth this week the very talented and vibrant Jerre Dye. Recommended by a recent genius guest, Cecelia Wingate, Jerre is a Southerner by birth, having grown up in a small town in Mississippi. He is a playwright, actor, director and opera librettist, now living in Chicago. Fellow Mississippi playwright Beth Henley, whose play Crimes of the Heart earned her a Pulitzer Prize in 1981, praises his lyrical voice and distinctly Southern sensibilities, proclaiming him “a vibrant force in the American theater.” Jerre’s plays Cicada and Distance were both nominated for Joseph Jefferson awards.

First off, Frank tells us about seeing our friend Christine McHugh‘s one-woman play Parents Must Be Dead at the Greenhouse Theatre. By all accounts, the evening was a smashing success, with a full house and great audience response. Congratulations, Christine! We learn that the somewhat odd title refers to a friend of Christine’s preference listing on a dating website. A bit maudlin, but at least he’s honest.

Gary reminds our listeners that they can hear the Booth One crew interviewed on the Rick Kogan After Hours radio program on the WGN website. To listen to Rick’s jaw-droppingly generous words about our show, click here.

Jerre takes us through his upbringing, his school days in Memphis, and his foray into acting in Hollywood. Big brother John Dye was his mentor, inspiration and role model. Highlights from his LA days include teaching Lily Tomlin how to clog(!?) and appearing as a dancer in the 1993 film of The Beverly Hillbillies with Jim Varney. His mentor at University of Memphis was Gloria Baxter, who was a classmate and friend of Frank Galati’s at Northwestern.

As film fans, we love a well-written movie review, even if it’s a pan. A couple of snippets from the the recent Keanu Reeves/Winona Ryder film reviewed in the NY Times: “‘Destination Wedding‘ is torture.”; “Nothing is as ailing as the screenplay.” Almost worth going to see it just for the train wreck!

Jerre talks about becoming an opera librettist and how that writing style and process differs from, and is similar to, his playwrighting. He first got involved with opera six years ago doing a project in Memphis creating several different stories about the people who worked at a now-shuttered Sears distribution complex. His opera career has advanced from there to the point where he’s now at work on a project called Taking Up Serpents with composer Kamala Sankaram to be presented by Washington National Opera at the Kennedy Center. The piece runs January 11-13 in Washington. Jerre has many other projects in the works and we’re excited to see them come to life. As Jerre says, “Everybody’s born with a story. It’s like a spell.”

In our Good Times and Bum Times segment, you’ll hear about the first raw-meat vending machine now operational in upstate New York (a dream invention for carnivore Gary), and you’ll meet Jessie, the foul-mouthed Macaw who shocked rescuers on a London roof top with a barrage of F-bombs.

Jerre and the boys play a little Chat Pack and we learn about Olympic dream events, books they would write, and least-favorite education courses they’ve taken. As always, this segment reveals some fascinating insight into our guest and hosts.

Kiss Of Death:

Nabi Tajima, recognized as the World’s Oldest Person

Born in 1900 in Araki, Japan, Ms. Tajima was the last known person born in the 19th century, and one of the few people who could recall a time before World War I. She had nine children and 160 descendents, including great-great-great grandchildren. Nabi Tajima was 117. Read the full Washington Post article here.

]]>We welcome to the Booth this week the very talented and vibrant Jerre Dye. Recommended by a recent genius guest, Cecelia Wingate, Jerre is a Southerner by birth, having grown up in a small town in Mississippi. He is a playwright, actor,
We welcome to the Booth this week the very talented and vibrant Jerre Dye. Recommended by a recent genius guest, Cecelia Wingate, Jerre is a Southerner by birth, having grown up in a small town in Mississippi. He is a playwright, actor, director and opera librettist, now living in Chicago. Fellow Mississippi playwright Beth Henley, whose play Crimes of the Heart earned her a Pulitzer Prize in 1981, praises his lyrical voice and distinctly Southern sensibilities, proclaiming him "a vibrant force in the American theater." Jerre's plays Cicada and Distance were both nominated for Joseph Jefferson awards.

First off, Frank tells us about seeing our friend Christine McHugh's one-woman play Parents Must Be Dead at the Greenhouse Theatre. By all accounts, the evening was a smashing success, with a full house and great audience response. Congratulations, Christine! We learn that the somewhat odd title refers to a friend of Christine's preference listing on a dating website. A bit maudlin, but at least he's honest.

Gary reminds our listeners that they can hear the Booth One crew interviewed on the Rick Kogan After Hours radio program on the WGN website. To listen to Rick's jaw-droppingly generous words about our show, click here.

Jerre takes us through his upbringing, his school days in Memphis, and his foray into acting in Hollywood. Big brother John Dye was his mentor, inspiration and role model. Highlights from his LA days include teaching Lily Tomlin how to clog(!?) and appearing as a dancer in the 1993 film of The Beverly Hillbillies with Jim Varney. His mentor at University of Memphis was Gloria Baxter, who was a classmate and friend of Frank Galati's at Northwestern.

As film fans, we love a well-written movie review, even if it's a pan. A couple of snippets from the the recent Keanu Reeves/Winona Ryder film reviewed in the NY Times: "'Destination Wedding' is torture."; "Nothing is as ailing as the screenplay." Almost worth going to see it just for the train wreck!

Jerre talks about becoming an opera librettist and how that writing style and process differs from, and is similar to, his playwrighting. He first got involved with opera six years ago doing a project in Memphis creating several different stories about the people who worked at a now-shuttered Sears distribution complex. His opera career has advanced from there to the point where he's now at work on a project called Taking Up Serpents with composer Kamala Sankaram to be presented by Washington National Opera at the Kennedy Center. The piece runs January 11-13 in Washington. Jerre has many other projects in the works and we're excited to see them come to life. As Jerre says, "Everybody's born with a story. It's like a spell."

In our Good Times and Bum Times segment, you'll hear about the first raw-meat ven...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau53:19Roscoe’s BACK for a guest appearance! – Episode 84https://booth-one.com/2018/09/roscoes-back-for-a-guest-appearance-episode-84/
Thu, 06 Sep 2018 19:46:49 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3261While Frank is out of town, we welcome Ross Fraser, founding co-host of Booth One, back to the studio. He is clearly excited to be back behind a microphone and in rare form.
Gary and Roscoe revisit some favorite topics such as, "Where are the Movie Stars?" and a new shark attack on Cape Cod.
Roscoe shares his favorite news story of prior week about a woman in a stolen car trying to elude police in (where else?) Florida, by jumping into a pasture with a herd of cows, who then take chase. You cannot make this stuff up.
We talk about the recent passing of the great Aretha Franklin. In 2008, Rolling Stone named her the greatest singer of the rock era, ahead of Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, Sam Cooke, and John Lennon. Check out this list!
Friend of the show David Cromer will be appearing on Broadway in The Waverly Gallery this fall with Elaine May, Joan Allen, Michael Ceres, and Lucas Hedges. It previews on September 27 and opens October 27. We were already planning a trip to see Alexandra Billings in her Broadway debut in The Nap, but now have two great reasons to venture east.
We have been invited to appear on After Hours with Rick Kogan on August 26. If you miss hearing it live, we'll post the link to the recording on our next episode.
Both Gary and Roscoe recommend the book Something Wonderful, Rogers and Hammerstein's Broadway Revolution.
Kiss of Death:
Patricia Morison
Learn about the actress Cole Porter discovered for his Broadway Production of Kiss Me Kate, who recently died at 103. From her NYT obituary: "The critics loved both her and the show — Brooks Atkinson of The New York Times praised her as “an agile and humorous actress who is not afraid of slapstick and who can sing enchantingly” — and so did the public."
While Frank is out of town, we welcome Ross Fraser, founding co-host of Booth One, back to the studio. He is clearly excited to be back behind a microphone and in rare form.

Gary and Roscoe revisit some favorite topics such as, “Where are the Movie Stars?” and a new shark attack on Cape Cod.

Roscoe shares his favorite news story of prior week about a woman in a stolen car trying to elude police in (where else?) Florida, by jumping into a pasture with a herd of cows, who then take chase. You cannot make this stuff up.

We talk about the recent passing of the great Aretha Franklin. In 2008, Rolling Stone named her the greatest singer of the rock era, ahead of Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, Sam Cooke, and John Lennon. Check out this list!

Friend of the show David Cromer will be appearing on Broadway in The Waverly Gallery this fall with Elaine May, Joan Allen, Michael Ceres, and Lucas Hedges. It previews on September 27 and opens October 27. We were already planning a trip to see Alexandra Billings in her Broadway debut in The Nap, but now have two great reasons to venture east.

We have been invited to appear on After Hours with Rick Kogan on August 26. If you miss hearing it live, we’ll post the link to the recording on our next episode.

Both Gary and Roscoe recommend the book Something Wonderful, Rogers and Hammerstein’s Broadway Revolution.

Kiss of Death:

Patricia Morison

Learn about the actress Cole Porter discovered for his Broadway Production of Kiss Me Kate, who recently died at 103. From her NYT obituary: “The critics loved both her and the show — Brooks Atkinson of The New York Times praised her as “an agile and humorous actress who is not afraid of slapstick and who can sing enchantingly” — and so did the public.”

]]>While Frank is out of town, we welcome Ross Fraser, founding co-host of Booth One, back to the studio. He is clearly excited to be back behind a microphone and in rare form. - Gary and Roscoe revisit some favorite topics such as,While Frank is out of town, we welcome Ross Fraser, founding co-host of Booth One, back to the studio. He is clearly excited to be back behind a microphone and in rare form.

Gary and Roscoe revisit some favorite topics such as, "Where are the Movie Stars?" and a new shark attack on Cape Cod.

Roscoe shares his favorite news story of prior week about a woman in a stolen car trying to elude police in (where else?) Florida, by jumping into a pasture with a herd of cows, who then take chase. You cannot make this stuff up.

We talk about the recent passing of the great Aretha Franklin. In 2008, Rolling Stone named her the greatest singer of the rock era, ahead of Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, Sam Cooke, and John Lennon. Check out this list!

Friend of the show David Cromer will be appearing on Broadway in The Waverly Gallery this fall with Elaine May, Joan Allen, Michael Ceres, and Lucas Hedges. It previews on September 27 and opens October 27. We were already planning a trip to see Alexandra Billings in her Broadway debut in The Nap, but now have two great reasons to venture east.

We have been invited to appear on After Hours with Rick Kogan on August 26. If you miss hearing it live, we'll post the link to the recording on our next episode.

Both Gary and Roscoe recommend the book Something Wonderful, Rogers and Hammerstein's Broadway Revolution.

Kiss of Death:

Patricia Morison

Learn about the actress Cole Porter discovered for his Broadway Production of Kiss Me Kate, who recently died at 103. From her NYT obituary: "The critics loved both her and the show — Brooks Atkinson of The New York Times praised her as “an agile and humorous actress who is not afraid of slapstick and who can sing enchantingly” — and so did the public."

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau49:11Talk about Southern Charm – Brilliant Director & Actress Cecelia Wingate – Episode 83https://booth-one.com/2018/08/talk-about-southern-charm-brilliant-director-actress-cecelia-wingate-episode-83/
Mon, 13 Aug 2018 01:56:19 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3231We welcome the remarkably talented actress and stage director Cecelia Wingate to Booth One this week. Hailing from Memphis, TN, Cecelia is a driving force in the vibrant theater scene there. Gary recalls seeing her breathtaking performance in Chicago in the marvelous new play by Evan Linder Byhalia, Mississippi directed by Tyrone Phillips a couple of seasons ago, a performance for which Cecelia won a Joseph Jefferson Award for Best Supporting Actress. Here is a photo from the triumphant opening night at Steppenwolf, which we were so lucky to get to be part of.
Cecelia recounts her upbringing in the South, from Georgia to Mississippi to Tennessee. Frank and Gary comment on her smooth and sexy southern drawl, an accent that Americans find the most appealing, according to a YouGov Poll.
In aquatic news this week, a trio of thieves pulled off a "shark-napping" at a Texas aquarium by disguising the stolen horn shark as a baby and wheeling it out in a stroller. Known as Miss Helen, the relatively harmless 1.5 foot creature was eventually found in a mock-up aquarium in a local garage and returned unharmed to her home tank. The two men and one woman heist-ers are being held on charges of theft in a San Antonio jail.
Before her tremendously successful career as a director took off, Cecelia was the founder and one of four lead singers in a band called The Bouffants for 21 years. The "Premier Party Band of the South", the group has played throughout the United States, including New York, Chicago, Atlanta and Minneapolis. The troupe started out as a girl-group cover band but has since added R&B, Motown and classic Rock & Roll to their repertoire. There's no current plan for a reunion of the original members, but Cecelia won't rule out a comeback should the circumstances arise.
We give a shout out to our friend Christine McHugh, who will perform her one-woman show Parents Must Be Dead at the Greenhouse Theater Center, Chicago, on Thursday, August 30. When her parents died within three years of each other she thought she had weathered this milestone life passage as an adult with some measure of ease and grace. Little did she know that the death of parents comes in many forms and with many reverberations. Some of them seismic. In her solo show, Christine explores this landscape that all of us will eventually navigate with raw humor and tender vulnerability. Click here for tickets and information.
Cecelia's Porch is a Memphis institution, where creative types and artists gather for informal dialogue, exchange of ideas and just plain fun. Open 365 days a year, it's a come-as-you-are drop-in destination. BYOB and food but be prepared for anything to happen, including singalongs with the neighbors. Gary, Frank, and Betsy are considering a field trip to Memphis to check out this Bloomsbury Group of the South.
The boys and Cecelia play a few rounds of Chat Pack, where we learn about the things that make them happiest, and what they'd like to have delivered to their homes each morning.
Listeners are reminded that for a donation of $100 or more to the Booth One non-profit in support of fascinating guests and scintillating conversation, legendary journalist and radio host Rick Kogan (Episode 82 guest) will provide an autographed copy of his true-crime book Everybody Pays. Just click the "Donate" button on our website for a quick and easy contribution. Thank you to those of you who have already donated. Your book is on the way!And it's a thriller.
Kiss of Death
Kathy Kriger - 'Madame Rick' at her Casablanca Cafe
During her stint with the American Diplomatic Service, Ms. Kriger found that Rick's Cafe, the cinematic gin joint from the 1942 movie Casablanca, did not actually exist. So she opened her own Rick's Cafe in a converted house in Casablanca's old city, creating "a sanctuary of tolerance," which she felt the cinematic night club represented. Ms. Kriger said that Rick's had been good for her.We welcome the remarkably talented actress and stage director Cecelia Wingate to Booth One this week. Hailing from Memphis, TN, Cecelia is a driving force in the vibrant theater scene there. Gary recalls seeing her breathtaking performance in Chicago in the marvelous new play by Evan LinderByhalia, Mississippi directed by Tyrone Phillips a couple of seasons ago, a performance for which Cecelia won a Joseph Jefferson Award for Best Supporting Actress. Here is a photo from the triumphant opening night at Steppenwolf, which we were so lucky to get to be part of.

Cecelia recounts her upbringing in the South, from Georgia to Mississippi to Tennessee. Frank and Gary comment on her smooth and sexy southern drawl, an accent that Americans find the most appealing, according to a YouGov Poll.

In aquatic news this week, a trio of thieves pulled off a “shark-napping” at a Texas aquarium by disguising the stolen horn shark as a baby and wheeling it out in a stroller. Known as Miss Helen, the relatively harmless 1.5 foot creature was eventually found in a mock-up aquarium in a local garage and returned unharmed to her home tank. The two men and one woman heist-ers are being held on charges of theft in a San Antonio jail.

Before her tremendously successful career as a director took off, Cecelia was the founder and one of four lead singers in a band called The Bouffants for 21 years. The “Premier Party Band of the South”, the group has played throughout the United States, including New York, Chicago, Atlanta and Minneapolis. The troupe started out as a girl-group cover band but has since added R&B, Motown and classic Rock & Roll to their repertoire. There’s no current plan for a reunion of the original members, but Cecelia won’t rule out a comeback should the circumstances arise.

We give a shout out to our friend Christine McHugh, who will perform her one-woman show Parents Must Be Deadat the Greenhouse Theater Center, Chicago, on Thursday, August 30. When her parents died within three years of each other she thought she had weathered this milestone life passage as an adult with some measure of ease and grace. Little did she know that the death of parents comes in many forms and with many reverberations. Some of them seismic. In her solo show, Christine explores this landscape that all of us will eventually navigate with raw humor and tender vulnerability. Click here for tickets and information.

Cecelia’s Porch is a Memphis institution, where creative types and artists gather for informal dialogue, exchange of ideas and just plain fun. Open 365 days a year, it’s a come-as-you-are drop-in destination. BYOB and food but be prepared for anything to happen, including singalongs with the neighbors. Gary, Frank, and Betsy are considering a field trip to Memphis to check out this Bloomsbury Group of the South.

The boys and Cecelia play a few rounds of Chat Pack, where we learn about the things that make them happiest, and what they’d like to have delivered to their homes each morning.

Listeners are reminded that for a donation of $100 or more to the Booth One non-profit in support of fascinating guests and scintillating conversation, legendary journalist and radio host Rick Kogan (Episode 82 guest) will provide an autographed copy of his true-crime book Everybody Pays. Just click the “Donate” button on our website for a quick and easy contribution. Thank you to those of you who have already donated. Your book is on the way!And it’s a thriller.

Kiss of Death

Kathy Kriger – ‘Madame Rick’ at her Casablanca Cafe
During her stint with the American Diplomatic Service, Ms. Kriger found that Rick’s Cafe, the cinematic gin joint from the 1942 movie Casablanca, did not actually exist. So she opened her own Rick’s Cafe in a converted house in Casablanca’s old city, creating “a sanctuary of tolerance,” which she felt the cinematic night club represented. Ms. Kriger said that Rick’s had been good for her. “With Rick looking over my shoulder, I found myself.” Kathy Kriger was 72. Read Rod Nordland’s obituary here.

]]>We welcome the remarkably talented actress and stage director Cecelia Wingate to Booth One this week. Hailing from Memphis, TN, Cecelia is a driving force in the vibrant theater scene there. Gary recalls seeing her breathtaking performance in Chicago i...

We welcome the remarkably talented actress and stage director Cecelia Wingate to Booth One this week. Hailing from Memphis, TN, Cecelia is a driving force in the vibrant theater scene there. Gary recalls seeing her breathtaking performance in Chicago in the marvelous new play by Evan Linder Byhalia, Mississippi directed by Tyrone Phillips a couple of seasons ago, a performance for which Cecelia won a Joseph Jefferson Award for Best Supporting Actress. Here is a photo from the triumphant opening night at Steppenwolf, which we were so lucky to get to be part of.

Cecelia recounts her upbringing in the South, from Georgia to Mississippi to Tennessee. Frank and Gary comment on her smooth and sexy southern drawl, an accent that Americans find the most appealing, according to a YouGov Poll.

In aquatic news this week, a trio of thieves pulled off a "shark-napping" at a Texas aquarium by disguising the stolen horn shark as a baby and wheeling it out in a stroller. Known as Miss Helen, the relatively harmless 1.5 foot creature was eventually found in a mock-up aquarium in a local garage and returned unharmed to her home tank. The two men and one woman heist-ers are being held on charges of theft in a San Antonio jail.

Before her tremendously successful career as a director took off, Cecelia was the founder and one of four lead singers in a band called The Bouffants for 21 years. The "Premier Party Band of the South", the group has played throughout the United States, including New York, Chicago, Atlanta and Minneapolis. The troupe started out as a girl-group cover band but has since added R&B, Motown and classic Rock & Roll to their repertoire. There's no current plan for a reunion of the original members, but Cecelia won't rule out a comeback should the circumstances arise.

We give a shout out to our friend Christine McHugh, who will perform her one-woman show Parents Must Be Dead at the Greenhouse Theater Center, Chicago, on Thursday, August 30. When her parents died within three years of each other she thought she had weathered this milestone life passage as an adult with some measure of ease and grace. Little did she know that the death of parents comes in many forms and with many reverberations. Some of them seismic. In her solo show, Christine explores this landscape that all of us will eventually navigate with raw humor and tender vulnerability. Click here for tickets and information.

Cecelia's Porch is a Memphis institution, where creative types and artists gather for informal dialogue, exchange of ideas and just plain fun. Open 365 days a year, it's a come-as-you-are drop-in destination. BYOB and food but be prepared for anything to happen, including singalongs with the neighbors. Gary, Frank, and Betsy are considering a field trip to Memphis to chec...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau53:09Rick Kogan – A Class Act – Episode 82https://booth-one.com/2018/07/rick-kogan-a-class-act-episode-82/
Mon, 30 Jul 2018 00:55:39 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3182Legendary Chicago newspaperman, radio host, and author Rick Kogan joins us in the Booth to share some great stories and lively conversation.
He's a big fan of our show and has listened to a number of past episodes that he's told us are terrific. High praise from a master interviewer who was a close friend of Studs Terkel and is carrying on in his brilliant tradition. Rick says he may be our only guest so far who has gotten drunk in the original Booth One at the Pump Room back when real movie stars sat there. Check out the list here.
Rick talks about growing up in a remarkable family - his father, legendary author and journalist Herman Kogan; his mother, reporter and publicist Marilew; and his brother, major league rock band tour manager Mark. He tells us an amazing story about Mark, Elvis and Sinatra. Their parents met at Riccardo's, a restaurant behind the Wrigley Building, and he is named Rick (not Richard) after the owner. A legendary hang out for newspaper people, artists, and musicians, our producer spent some time there back in the day just to eavesdrop on the always interesting conversations.
He talks about the kind of people who were hanging around his parents' apartment growing up. A list that includes Studs & Ida Terkel, Nelson Algren, Marcel Marceau, and Mort Sahl. Can you imagine?
We learn about his early career driving a cab, then moving to Spain and eventually submitting a travel piece about Dover, England to the Tribune, which sold for the then thrilling price of $160. He returned to Chicago and began an incredible career in journalism.
Gary announces that on August 1st, the National Comedy Center will open in Jamestown, NY, the birthplace of Lucille Ball. Check out this video that will make you want to visit. Frank is an expert on Lucy, and will probably be going to represent. One of the cool things is that on a touch screen, you create a "sense of humor profile" to personalize your experience. They have acquired the archives of a very impressive array of comedians, including Lenny Bruce and George Carlin.
Gary asks Rick about favorite guests on his radio show. He starts with Studs Terkel, who was not just the all-time great interviewer, but also a really fun guest. They talk about the WFMT Studs Terkel archive and Rick describes a favorite - Studs interviewing a very young Bob Dylan. You don't want to miss his spot-on impression of Studs and hilarious summary of the episode. The digital audio of this is not yet public, but will be soon.
Rick graciously invites us to come on his radio show, After Hours, which airs on Sunday nights from 9:00 - 11:00pm CST on WGN. What an honor! The boys are excited about this opportunity.
A Red Orchid Theatre is currently running a Eugene Ionesco play called Victims of Duty, a lesser known work not often produced. It stars a wonderful group of actors, including Michael Shannon and AROT co-founder Guy Van Swearingen. It's an absurdist play that deals with memories and the concept of "non-theatre". Gary and Frank admit to being somewhat puzzled by the play's themes and structure, but praise the performances and the production design by Danila Korogodsky along with excellent direction by Shira Piven. Running through August 5, this show will keep you laughing, guessing and thinking. And pondering the absurdities of life and love.
Rick regales us with tales of baseball, Riverview amusement park, Mike Royko, John Wayne, and Bushman the gorilla. We discuss his fascinating true-crime book Everybody Pays, co-authored with Maurice Possley. A real page-turner and we are hoping destined for a movie deal some day.
One of the most generous people we've ever met, Rick tells our listeners that he will send a signed copy of Everybody Pays to anyone who donates $100 or more to the Booth One non-profit. So look for the Donate button on our web site and receive your free book!
In addition to writing columns and stories for the Chicago Tribune,Legendary Chicago newspaperman, radio host, and author Rick Kogan joins us in the Booth to share some great stories and lively conversation.

He’s a big fan of our show and has listened to a number of past episodes that he’s told us are terrific. High praise from a master interviewer who was a close friend of Studs Terkel and is carrying on in his brilliant tradition. Rick says he may be our only guest so far who has gotten drunk in the original Booth One at the Pump Room back when real movie stars sat there. Check out the list here.

Rick talks about growing up in a remarkable family – his father, legendary author and journalist Herman Kogan; his mother, reporter and publicist Marilew; and his brother, major league rock band tour manager Mark. He tells us an amazing story about Mark, Elvis and Sinatra. Their parents met at Riccardo’s, a restaurant behind the Wrigley Building, and he is named Rick (not Richard) after the owner. A legendary hang out for newspaper people, artists, and musicians, our producer spent some time there back in the day just to eavesdrop on the always interesting conversations.

He talks about the kind of people who were hanging around his parents’ apartment growing up. A list that includes Studs & Ida Terkel, Nelson Algren, Marcel Marceau, and Mort Sahl. Can you imagine?

We learn about his early career driving a cab, then moving to Spain and eventually submitting a travel piece about Dover, England to the Tribune, which sold for the then thrilling price of $160. He returned to Chicago and began an incredible career in journalism.

Gary announces that on August 1st, the National Comedy Center will open in Jamestown, NY, the birthplace of Lucille Ball. Check out this video that will make you want to visit. Frank is an expert on Lucy, and will probably be going to represent. One of the cool things is that on a touch screen, you create a “sense of humor profile” to personalize your experience. They have acquired the archives of a very impressive array of comedians, including Lenny Bruce and George Carlin.

Gary asks Rick about favorite guests on his radio show. He starts with Studs Terkel, who was not just the all-time great interviewer, but also a really fun guest. They talk about the WFMT Studs Terkel archive and Rick describes a favorite – Studs interviewing a very young Bob Dylan. You don’t want to miss his spot-on impression of Studs and hilarious summary of the episode. The digital audio of this is not yet public, but will be soon.

Rick graciously invites us to come on his radio show, After Hours, which airs on Sunday nights from 9:00 – 11:00pm CST on WGN. What an honor! The boys are excited about this opportunity.

A Red Orchid Theatre is currently running a Eugene Ionesco play called Victims of Duty, a lesser known work not often produced. It stars a wonderful group of actors, including Michael Shannon and AROT co-founder Guy Van Swearingen. It’s an absurdist play that deals with memories and the concept of “non-theatre”. Gary and Frank admit to being somewhat puzzled by the play’s themes and structure, but praise the performances and the production design by Danila Korogodsky along with excellent direction by Shira Piven. Running through August 5, this show will keep you laughing, guessing and thinking. And pondering the absurdities of life and love.

One of the most generous people we’ve ever met, Rick tells our listeners that he will send a signed copy of Everybody Pays to anyone who donates $100 or more to the Booth One non-profit. So look for the Donate button on our web site and receive your free book!

In addition to writing columns and stories for the Chicago Tribune, Rick Kogan also contributes the occasional obituary. He brings a personal touch to these remembrances and is most proud of the ones where he can give a first-hand account of a life well lived. He is so eloquent in his perspective on obituary writing and on the lives of Art Shay and Art Paul that for the first time in 82 episodes, we decide to skip a Kiss of Death segment this week.

]]>Legendary Chicago newspaperman, radio host, and author Rick Kogan joins us in the Booth to share some great stories and lively conversation. - He's a big fan of our show and has listened to a number of past episodes that he's told us are terrific.Legendary Chicago newspaperman, radio host, and author Rick Kogan joins us in the Booth to share some great stories and lively conversation.

He's a big fan of our show and has listened to a number of past episodes that he's told us are terrific. High praise from a master interviewer who was a close friend of Studs Terkel and is carrying on in his brilliant tradition. Rick says he may be our only guest so far who has gotten drunk in the original Booth One at the Pump Room back when real movie stars sat there. Check out the list here.

Rick talks about growing up in a remarkable family - his father, legendary author and journalist Herman Kogan; his mother, reporter and publicist Marilew; and his brother, major league rock band tour manager Mark. He tells us an amazing story about Mark, Elvis and Sinatra. Their parents met at Riccardo's, a restaurant behind the Wrigley Building, and he is named Rick (not Richard) after the owner. A legendary hang out for newspaper people, artists, and musicians, our producer spent some time there back in the day just to eavesdrop on the always interesting conversations.

He talks about the kind of people who were hanging around his parents' apartment growing up. A list that includes Studs & Ida Terkel, Nelson Algren, Marcel Marceau, and Mort Sahl. Can you imagine?

We learn about his early career driving a cab, then moving to Spain and eventually submitting a travel piece about Dover, England to the Tribune, which sold for the then thrilling price of $160. He returned to Chicago and began an incredible career in journalism.

Gary announces that on August 1st, the National Comedy Center will open in Jamestown, NY, the birthplace of Lucille Ball. Check out this video that will make you want to visit. Frank is an expert on Lucy, and will probably be going to represent. One of the cool things is that on a touch screen, you create a "sense of humor profile" to personalize your experience. They have acquired the archives of a very impressive array of comedians, including Lenny Bruce and George Carlin.

Gary asks Rick about favorite guests on his radio show. He starts with Studs Terkel, who was not just the all-time great interviewer, but also a really fun guest. They talk about the WFMT Studs Terkel archive and Rick describes a favorite - Studs interviewing a very young Bob Dylan. You don't want to miss his spot-on impression of Studs and hilarious summary of the episode. The digital audio of this is not yet public, but will be soon.

Rick graciously invites us to come on his radio show, After Hours, which airs on Sunday nights from 9:00 - 11:00pm CST on WGN. What an honor! The boys are excited about this opportunity.

A Red Orchid Theatre is currently running a Eugene Ionesco play called Victims of Duty, a lesser known work not often produced. It stars a wonderful group of actors, including Michael Shannon and AROT co-founder Guy Van Swearingen.]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau1:01:40Believe – with Gary and Frank – Episode 81https://booth-one.com/2018/07/believe-with-gary-and-frank-episode-81/
Mon, 16 Jul 2018 21:40:51 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3135Gary and Frank catch up and discuss a couple of recent theatrical viewings. First off, we get an inside look at Frank's eastern European trip which took him away from Booth One for a couple of episodes. He tells of his experiences in Warsaw, Krakow, Prague, Vienna and Budapest, how the architecture and city centers have changed, and why Prague is one of the most stunning cities he's ever visited. He is grateful to friend of the show and two-time guest, Stuart Dybek, for his great suggestions for things to do in Prague. He also let us know that Warsaw is booming and beautiful.
While on the continent, Frank sampled a Porn Star Martini, ate at iconic local restaurants, and ogled the naked people on building facades in Prague. Other than Vienna, the entire trip was a bargain and the direct flights on LOT between both Warsaw and Budapest & Chicago made travel a breeze. A trip that Frank highly recommends.
The boys visited the Steppenwolf Theatre to view their new main stage show The Roommate, featuring knock-out performances from Ora Jones and Sandra Marquez, both Steppenwolf ensemble members. Written by the up and coming and very talented playwright Jen Silverman and directed by Phylicia Rashad, The Roommate is a comedy/drama centered around two women who become housemates somewhere in Iowa. Gary and Frank share their thoughts and opinions on the play, and suggest that it is perfect summer fare for those seeking a great night out at the theater. The Roommate runs through August 5.
We discuss writer-performer Amanda Duarte's Guide to Theater Etiquette. Standing, talking, eating, drinking, clapping and cell phones are among the topics she shares her opinions on in this New York Time Out article. Enjoy.
Next up is our take on The Cher Show, which recently had its pre-Broadway tryout here in Chicago at the Oriental Theatre. Containing 35 hit songs and a flurry of thrilling Bob Mackie gowns, this biographical musical gives us three versions of Cher - Babe, Lady and Star - at different points in her life and career. Played by three actresses - Micaela Diamond (in her professional debut), Teal Wicks, and the always amazing Stephanie J. Block - the show is framed as a TV special being made about Cher's life. The three "Chers" interact with each other throughout, even having musical numbers as a trio, something Gary found to be an oddly disconcerting choice by the writers. Nevertheless, the opening night audience was very responsive and cheered wildly at many of the show's high points and at the curtain call. By the way, Jarrod Spector as Sonny is marvelous.
Both Frank and Gary feel there is a bit of work to be done by the creative staff prior to the November 1 preview at the Neil Simon Theatre in New York. But they agree that they were highly entertained and that the show has great promise. Especially considering the box office success of the current Summer - The Donna Summer Musical now on Broadway.
Kiss of Death:
Gillian Lynne - Choreographer of Cats and The Phantom of the Opera
The renowned British ballerina who turned choreographer created the sinuous dances in Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cats. Gillian Barbara Pyrke began dancing at an early age and by 15, was dancing at the Ballet Guild, whose artistic director gave her a new surname. She appeared in films, onstage and on television throughout the 1950s, and choreographed The Roar of the Greasepaint - the Smell of the Crowd in 1965 on Broadway. This past June, the New London Theater, where Cats opened in 1981, was renamed for Ms. Lynne. She was carried to the stage on a golden throne surrounded by dancers from the musical. Gillian Lynne was 92. Read the full NYT obit here.
Gary and Frank catch up and discuss a couple of recent theatrical viewings. First off, we get an inside look at Frank’s eastern European trip which took him away from Booth One for a couple of episodes. He tells of his experiences in Warsaw, Krakow, Prague, Vienna and Budapest, how the architecture and city centers have changed, and why Prague is one of the most stunning cities he’s ever visited. He is grateful to friend of the show and two-time guest, Stuart Dybek, for his great suggestions for things to do in Prague. He also let us know that Warsaw is booming and beautiful.

While on the continent, Frank sampled a Porn Star Martini,ate at iconic local restaurants, and ogled the naked people on building facades in Prague. Other than Vienna, the entire trip was a bargain and the direct flights on LOT between both Warsaw and Budapest & Chicago made travel a breeze. A trip that Frank highly recommends.

The boys visited the Steppenwolf Theatre to view their new main stage show The Roommate, featuring knock-out performances from Ora Jones and Sandra Marquez, both Steppenwolf ensemble members. Written by the up and coming and very talented playwright Jen Silverman and directed by Phylicia Rashad, The Roommate is a comedy/drama centered around two women who become housemates somewhere in Iowa. Gary and Frank share their thoughts and opinions on the play, and suggest that it is perfect summer fare for those seeking a great night out at the theater. The Roommate runs through August 5.

We discuss writer-performer Amanda Duarte’s Guide to Theater Etiquette. Standing, talking, eating, drinking, clapping and cell phones are among the topics she shares her opinions on in this New York Time Out article. Enjoy.

Next up is our take on The Cher Show, which recently had its pre-Broadway tryout here in Chicago at the Oriental Theatre. Containing 35 hit songs and a flurry of thrilling Bob Mackie gowns, this biographical musical gives us three versions of Cher – Babe, Lady and Star – at different points in her life and career. Played by three actresses – Micaela Diamond (in her professional debut), Teal Wicks, and the always amazing Stephanie J. Block – the show is framed as a TV special being made about Cher’s life. The three “Chers” interact with each other throughout, even having musical numbers as a trio, something Gary found to be an oddly disconcerting choice by the writers. Nevertheless, the opening night audience was very responsive and cheered wildly at many of the show’s high points and at the curtain call. By the way, Jarrod Spector as Sonny is marvelous.

Both Frank and Gary feel there is a bit of work to be done by the creative staff prior to the November 1 preview at the Neil Simon Theatre in New York. But they agree that they were highly entertained and that the show has great promise. Especially considering the box office success of the current Summer – The Donna Summer Musical now on Broadway.

Kiss of Death:

Gillian Lynne – Choreographer of Cats and The Phantom of the Opera
The renowned British ballerina who turned choreographer created the sinuous dances in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats. Gillian Barbara Pyrke began dancing at an early age and by 15, was dancing at the Ballet Guild, whose artistic director gave her a new surname. She appeared in films, onstage and on television throughout the 1950s, and choreographed The Roar of the Greasepaint – the Smell of the Crowd in 1965 on Broadway. This past June, the New London Theater, where Cats opened in 1981, was renamed for Ms. Lynne. She was carried to the stage on a golden throne surrounded by dancers from the musical. Gillian Lynne was 92. Read the full NYT obit here.

]]>Gary and Frank catch up and discuss a couple of recent theatrical viewings. First off, we get an inside look at Frank's eastern European trip which took him away from Booth One for a couple of episodes. He tells of his experiences in Warsaw, Krakow,
Gary and Frank catch up and discuss a couple of recent theatrical viewings. First off, we get an inside look at Frank's eastern European trip which took him away from Booth One for a couple of episodes. He tells of his experiences in Warsaw, Krakow, Prague, Vienna and Budapest, how the architecture and city centers have changed, and why Prague is one of the most stunning cities he's ever visited. He is grateful to friend of the show and two-time guest, Stuart Dybek, for his great suggestions for things to do in Prague. He also let us know that Warsaw is booming and beautiful.

While on the continent, Frank sampled a Porn Star Martini, ate at iconic local restaurants, and ogled the naked people on building facades in Prague. Other than Vienna, the entire trip was a bargain and the direct flights on LOT between both Warsaw and Budapest & Chicago made travel a breeze. A trip that Frank highly recommends.

The boys visited the Steppenwolf Theatre to view their new main stage show The Roommate, featuring knock-out performances from Ora Jones and Sandra Marquez, both Steppenwolf ensemble members. Written by the up and coming and very talented playwright Jen Silverman and directed by Phylicia Rashad, The Roommate is a comedy/drama centered around two women who become housemates somewhere in Iowa. Gary and Frank share their thoughts and opinions on the play, and suggest that it is perfect summer fare for those seeking a great night out at the theater. The Roommate runs through August 5.

We discuss writer-performer Amanda Duarte's Guide to Theater Etiquette. Standing, talking, eating, drinking, clapping and cell phones are among the topics she shares her opinions on in this New York Time Out article. Enjoy.

Next up is our take on The Cher Show, which recently had its pre-Broadway tryout here in Chicago at the Oriental Theatre. Containing 35 hit songs and a flurry of thrilling Bob Mackie gowns, this biographical musical gives us three versions of Cher - Babe, Lady and Star - at different points in her life and career. Played by three actresses - Micaela Diamond (in her professional debut), Teal Wicks, and the always amazing Stephanie J. Block - the show is framed as a TV special being made about Cher's life. The three "Chers" interact with each other throughout, even having musical numbers as a trio, something Gary found to be an oddly disconcerting choice by the writers. Nevertheless, the opening night audience was very responsive and cheered wildly at many of the show's high points and at the curtain call. By the way, Jarrod Spector as Sonny is marvelous.
]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau47:38The Max & Tony Fitzpatrick Show- Episode 80https://booth-one.com/2018/07/the-max-tony-fitzpatrick-show-episode-80/
Mon, 02 Jul 2018 03:07:28 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3098Today we welcome to the Booth acclaimed artist, author, and actor Tony Fitzpatrick, and his son and podcast partner, Max. They are quite a team. Max also manages Adventureland Gallery at 1513 N. Western. Where there is great art and free beer!
Tony's stunning drawing collages can be found in museums such as MOMA and Chicago's MCA, along with a lot of private collections. He has also done cover art for many musicians, including friend of the show Steve Earle, jazz saxaphonist Frank Catalano, Ike Reilly and Sarah Borges. Tony has amazing taste in music, so check out these brilliant artists.
In 2009, New City magazine named Tony Fitzpatrick the "best iconic Chicago personality now that Studs Terkel is gone." That is quite an honor and we agree.
Tony and his son are now producing a great podcast called The Max & Tony Show. Tony has lots of radio experience from doing a show on the Loop and Max brings a lot to the table as a younger actor and producer. They have amazing friends who often appear on the show. Check it out. We talk about all the opportunities we now have in the very personal medium of podcasting.
Tony is hilarious making fun of us who are Cubs fans for bringing up our world series win every chance we get. He is a long time White Sox fan.
Steven Conrad, creator of the television show Patriot, tapped Tony to play a wonderful character named Jack Birdbath. Not only is it an amazing show, but Max and Tony describe a creative process that sounds like a dream come true. AND...they filmed season two in Paris! Max was able to be on set every day and get a "master class in acting for camera." Not too shabby. Check out season 2 in the fall.
Tony can do it all. When Gary asked him about that he said, "I've always found that the best respite from one creative pursuit is another one. Which is why I've always written poetry....A good, nimble, and limber way to keep yourself engaged creatively all the time."
Tony recently published Dime Stories, a collection of columns and drawings he did for New City. He reads the first piece, about bird watchers, for us. What a treat! How about this description from the great Chicago filmmaker, Andrew Davis:
"This brilliant view into the wild world of Tony Fitzpatrick will move you. His art is astounding and relevant, his writing gutsy, funny, and unafraid. In the tradition of the the great Chicago and Illinois icons—Terkel, Twain, Royko, and Sandberg—Tony Fitzpatrick takes on the phonies and con men and elevates the humanity in us all. From beautiful birds to bar room brawls, Dime Stories exemplifies the work of a true renaissance man. Grab this book and cherish it."
—Andrew Davis, director of The Fugitive, Code of Silence, and Holes
Gary mentions Tony's prescient column about Donald "Chump," written in 2014. Another good one to check out.
Have you heard about the League of Kitchens? They are cooking workshops led by immigrants in their homes. An immersive experience. You leave with a booklet of their family recipes and a shopping guide. What could be better?
Max, who is the manager of Adventurleand, talks about the joy he feels making things happen for artists.
Tony tells us about creating posters as part of his activism, the most recent for the women's refugee project. "The most potent thing I can do with my particular skill set." We appreciate this so much, Tony!
Michele and Tony's daughter Gaby is living in Greece, receiving and helping rafts of refugees from Syria. What a family.
Kiss of Death: Bill Gold
Gary celebrates the life of Bill Gold who designed more than 2000 movie posters. Read his amazing legacy here. What a legend!
Today we welcome to the Booth acclaimed artist, author, and actor Tony Fitzpatrick, and his son and podcast partner, Max. They are quite a team. Max also manages Adventureland Gallery at 1513 N. Western. Where there is great art and free beer!

Tony’s stunning drawing collages can be found in museums such as MOMA and Chicago’s MCA, along with a lot of private collections. He has also done cover art for many musicians, including friend of the show Steve Earle, jazz saxaphonistFrank Catalano, Ike Reilly and Sarah Borges.Tony has amazing taste in music, so check out these brilliant artists.

In 2009, New City magazine named Tony Fitzpatrick the “best iconic Chicago personality now that Studs Terkel is gone.” That is quite an honor and we agree.

Tony and his son are now producing a great podcast called The Max & Tony Show. Tony has lots of radio experience from doing a show on the Loop and Max brings a lot to the table as a younger actor and producer. They have amazing friends who often appear on the show. Check it out. We talk about all the opportunities we now have in the very personal medium of podcasting.

Tony is hilarious making fun of us who are Cubs fans for bringing up our world series win every chance we get. He is a long time White Sox fan.

Steven Conrad, creator of the television show Patriot, tapped Tony to play a wonderful character named Jack Birdbath. Not only is it an amazing show, but Max and Tony describe a creative process that sounds like a dream come true. AND…they filmed season two in Paris! Max was able to be on set every day and get a “master class in acting for camera.” Not too shabby. Check out season 2 in the fall.

Tony can do it all. When Gary asked him about that he said, “I’ve always found that the best respite from one creative pursuit is another one. Which is why I’ve always written poetry….A good, nimble, and limber way to keep yourself engaged creatively all the time.”

Tony recently published Dime Stories, a collection of columns and drawings he did for New City. He reads the first piece, about bird watchers, for us. What a treat! How about this description from the great Chicago filmmaker, Andrew Davis:

“This brilliant view into the wild world of Tony Fitzpatrick will move you. His art is astounding and relevant, his writing gutsy, funny, and unafraid. In the tradition of the the great Chicago and Illinois icons—Terkel, Twain, Royko, and Sandberg—Tony Fitzpatrick takes on the phonies and con men and elevates the humanity in us all. From beautiful birds to bar room brawls, Dime Stories exemplifies the work of a true renaissance man. Grab this book and cherish it.”
—Andrew Davis, director of The Fugitive, Code of Silence, and Holes

Gary mentions Tony’s prescient column about Donald “Chump,” written in 2014. Another good one to check out.

Have you heard about the League of Kitchens? They are cooking workshops led by immigrants in their homes. An immersive experience. You leave with a booklet of their family recipes and a shopping guide. What could be better?

Max, who is the manager of Adventurleand, talks about the joy he feels making things happen for artists.

Tony tells us about creating posters as part of his activism, the most recent for the women’s refugee project. “The most potent thing I can do with my particular skill set.” We appreciate this so much, Tony!

Michele and Tony’s daughter Gaby is living in Greece, receiving and helping rafts of refugees from Syria. What a family.

Kiss of Death: Bill Gold

Gary celebrates the life of Bill Gold who designed more than 2000 movie posters. Read his amazing legacy here. What a legend!

]]>Today we welcome to the Booth acclaimed artist, author, and actor Tony Fitzpatrick, and his son and podcast partner, Max. They are quite a team. Max also manages Adventureland Gallery at 1513 N. Western. Where there is great art and free beer! - Today we welcome to the Booth acclaimed artist, author, and actor Tony Fitzpatrick, and his son and podcast partner, Max. They are quite a team. Max also manages Adventureland Gallery at 1513 N. Western. Where there is great art and free beer!

Tony's stunning drawing collages can be found in museums such as MOMA and Chicago's MCA, along with a lot of private collections. He has also done cover art for many musicians, including friend of the show Steve Earle, jazz saxaphonist Frank Catalano, Ike Reilly and Sarah Borges. Tony has amazing taste in music, so check out these brilliant artists.

In 2009, New City magazine named Tony Fitzpatrick the "best iconic Chicago personality now that Studs Terkel is gone." That is quite an honor and we agree.

Tony and his son are now producing a great podcast called The Max & Tony Show. Tony has lots of radio experience from doing a show on the Loop and Max brings a lot to the table as a younger actor and producer. They have amazing friends who often appear on the show. Check it out. We talk about all the opportunities we now have in the very personal medium of podcasting.

Tony is hilarious making fun of us who are Cubs fans for bringing up our world series win every chance we get. He is a long time White Sox fan.

Steven Conrad, creator of the television show Patriot, tapped Tony to play a wonderful character named Jack Birdbath. Not only is it an amazing show, but Max and Tony describe a creative process that sounds like a dream come true. AND...they filmed season two in Paris! Max was able to be on set every day and get a "master class in acting for camera." Not too shabby. Check out season 2 in the fall.

Tony can do it all. When Gary asked him about that he said, "I've always found that the best respite from one creative pursuit is another one. Which is why I've always written poetry....A good, nimble, and limber way to keep yourself engaged creatively all the time."

Tony recently published Dime Stories, a collection of columns and drawings he did for New City. He reads the first piece, about bird watchers, for us. What a treat! How about this description from the great Chicago filmmaker, Andrew Davis:

"This brilliant view into the wild world of Tony Fitzpatrick will move you. His art is astounding and relevant, his writing gutsy, funny, and unafraid. In the tradition of the the great Chicago and Illinois icons—Terkel, Twain, Royko, and Sandberg—Tony Fitzpatrick takes on the phonies and con men and elevates the humanity in us all. From beautiful birds to bar room brawls, Dime Stories exemplifies the work of a true renaissance man. Grab this book and cherish it."
—Andrew Davis, director of The Fugitive, Code of Silence, and Holes

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau54:48Monologues for Civilians – Director & Litigation Coach, Richard Shavzinhttps://booth-one.com/2018/06/monologues-civilians-director-litigation-coach-richard-shavzin/
Tue, 19 Jun 2018 02:45:57 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3059Long time friend and Gary's collaborator on the legendary Klub Kokomo joins us in the Booth to talk about that amazing production and his career as an actor, director, producer, and coach to trial lawyers.
Richard directed and Gary was the stage manager for Paul Stanley's production of this wild show in 2000. Read about it here. Our producer was there and has never seen anything like it. A few highlights: They transformed the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts into a nightclub. The show was environmental and interactive (including working bars). Mark Lindsay of Paul Revere and the Raiders fame played a 15 minute set at each intermission. Wish you could have seen it.
Richard draws on his background as a theatre artist to train lawyers on presentation skills for the courtroom and depositions. In his business, Speaking Legally, he works with partner Kevin Theis (episode 58) on coaching performance skills. Chicago Litigation Consultants brings actors into law firms or law schools to portray clients or witnesses to train lawyers in trial practice. Sounds like fun and interesting work. Gary asks him if he's ever had a hopeless case. No, but Richard describes a very interesting challenging client.
Thanks once again to awesome friend of the show, Nancy Needles, we learned about an amazing "Urban Glamping Experience" at The Gwen Hotel here in Chicago. You must check out the glamorous details. We think $5,500 per night is extreme, even if you are allowed to share it among 7 people. Still, it's a fun thing to imagine doing.
Gary tells us about our friend Jennifer Engstrom's marvelous performance doing exerpts from her Dorothy Parker show at A Red Orchid's fund raiser (which we attended the night after she was on the show). Jennifer is the real deal, in so many ways. We were thrilled to get to witness some of Frank's mentorship of Jen in action.
Richard is an official Tony award voter - first on our show! He and Gary did some fun predictions and we will let you know how that went. Big love to The Band's Visit!
A heartfelt thank you to Carnegie Mellon and the Broadway League for recognizing Melody Herzfeld, the remarkable drama teacher at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas high school, with a Tony award. Will write more about that next episode.
We, like so so many others, loved Rachel Rockwell. The point of this part of our show is to celebrate and honer someone we admired. Listen to his lovely tribute that includes some beautiful quotes about who she was and her work from her dear friend and collaborator, Rick Boynton, as well as from her dad. Read Chris Jones' obituary here.
We were fortunate to be able to spend an afternoon with her as our guest on episode 57.
Long time friend and Gary’s collaborator on the legendary Klub Kokomo joins us in the Booth to talk about that amazing production and his career as an actor, director, producer, and coach to trial lawyers.

Richard directed and Gary was the stage manager for Paul Stanley’s production of this wild show in 2000. Read about it here. Our producer was there and has never seen anything like it. A few highlights: They transformed the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts into a nightclub. The show was environmental and interactive (including working bars). Mark Lindsay of Paul Revere and the Raiders fame played a 15 minute set at each intermission. Wish you could have seen it.

Richard draws on his background as a theatre artist to train lawyers on presentation skills for the courtroom and depositions. In his business, Speaking Legally, he works with partner Kevin Theis (episode 58) on coaching performance skills. Chicago Litigation Consultants brings actors into law firms or law schools to portray clients or witnesses to train lawyers in trial practice. Sounds like fun and interesting work. Gary asks him if he’s ever had a hopeless case. No, but Richard describes a very interesting challenging client.

Thanks once again to awesome friend of the show, Nancy Needles, we learned about an amazing “Urban Glamping Experience” at The Gwen Hotel here in Chicago. You must check out the glamorous details. We think $5,500 per night is extreme, even if you are allowed to share it among 7 people. Still, it’s a fun thing to imagine doing.

Gary tells us about our friend Jennifer Engstrom’s marvelous performance doing exerpts from her Dorothy Parker show at A Red Orchid’s fund raiser (which we attended the night after she was on the show). Jennifer is the real deal, in so many ways. We were thrilled to get to witness some of Frank’s mentorship of Jen in action.

Richard is an official Tony award voter – first on our show! He and Gary did some fun predictions and we will let you know how that went. Big love to The Band’s Visit!

A heartfelt thank you to Carnegie Mellon and the Broadway League for recognizing Melody Herzfeld, the remarkable drama teacher at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas high school, with a Tony award. Will write more about that next episode.

We, like so so many others, loved Rachel Rockwell. The point of this part of our show is to celebrate and honer someone we admired. Listen to his lovely tribute that includes some beautiful quotes about who she was and her work from her dear friend and collaborator, Rick Boynton, as well as from her dad. Read Chris Jones’ obituary here.

We were fortunate to be able to spend an afternoon with her as our guest on episode 57.

]]>Long time friend and Gary's collaborator on the legendary Klub Kokomo joins us in the Booth to talk about that amazing production and his career as an actor, director, producer, and coach to trial lawyers. -
Richard directed and Gary was the stage manager for Paul Stanley's production of this wild show in 2000. Read about it here. Our producer was there and has never seen anything like it. A few highlights: They transformed the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts into a nightclub. The show was environmental and interactive (including working bars). Mark Lindsay of Paul Revere and the Raiders fame played a 15 minute set at each intermission. Wish you could have seen it.

Richard draws on his background as a theatre artist to train lawyers on presentation skills for the courtroom and depositions. In his business, Speaking Legally, he works with partner Kevin Theis (episode 58) on coaching performance skills. Chicago Litigation Consultants brings actors into law firms or law schools to portray clients or witnesses to train lawyers in trial practice. Sounds like fun and interesting work. Gary asks him if he's ever had a hopeless case. No, but Richard describes a very interesting challenging client.

Thanks once again to awesome friend of the show, Nancy Needles, we learned about an amazing "Urban Glamping Experience" at The Gwen Hotel here in Chicago. You must check out the glamorous details. We think $5,500 per night is extreme, even if you are allowed to share it among 7 people. Still, it's a fun thing to imagine doing.

Gary tells us about our friend Jennifer Engstrom's marvelous performance doing exerpts from her Dorothy Parker show at A Red Orchid's fund raiser (which we attended the night after she was on the show). Jennifer is the real deal, in so many ways. We were thrilled to get to witness some of Frank's mentorship of Jen in action.

Richard is an official Tony award voter - first on our show! He and Gary did some fun predictions and we will let you know how that went. Big love to The Band's Visit!

A heartfelt thank you to Carnegie Mellon and the Broadway League for recognizing Melody Herzfeld, the remarkable drama teacher at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas high school, with a Tony award. Will write more about that next episode.

We, like so so many others, loved Rachel Rockwell. The point of this part of our show is to celebrate and honer someone we admired. Listen to his lovely tribute that includes some beautiful quotes about who she was and her work from her dear friend and collaborator, Rick Boynton, as well as from her dad. Read Chris Jones' obituary here.

We were fortunate to be able to spend an afternoon with her as our guest on episode 57.

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau45:54You’re On! – Actress Jennifer Engstrom – Episode 78https://booth-one.com/2018/05/youre-actress-jennifer-engstrom-episode-78/
Mon, 28 May 2018 23:32:14 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=3022The endlessly fascinating Jennifer Engstrom graces us in the Booth today. Jen is a long-time ensemble member of A Red Orchid Theatre (as is our last guest, playwright Brett Neveu). She has appeared in over a dozen productions there and at many other great Chicago theaters (as well as in productions in London and New York). She grew up on a farm outside of Huxley, Iowa and made her way to the big city via the College of DuPage theatre program, where she soon became active in the speech department. And who coached and encouraged her in a career in the performing arts? None other than our own Frank Tourangeau! Frank was a professor and head of the speech department during Jennifer's time there and served as her mentor and teacher.
Frank relates how he cast her in the play Whose Life is it Anyway? as the lead made famous on Broadway and the West End by Tom Conti, and revived some years later with Mary Tyler Moore in the starring role. By all accounts, Jen was luminous in the part. BTW, when Gary was working in Emanuel Azenberg's office, he was a stand-in for Tom Conti for several rehearsals on the Broadway production.
In addition to her numerous acting roles, Jennifer has had an interesting career as an understudy around Chicago. We discuss her going on as Blanche DuBois at the last minute in a Writers Theatre production of A Streetcar Named Desire, directed by David Cromer. Though she knew the blocking and the lines well, her costumes had not been finished and there was a mad scramble to devise a proper wardrobe track for that performance (which Gary and producer Betsy were privileged to see!). She also stepped in for Amy Morton in the Steppenwolf Theatre production of Taylor Mac's HIR when Ms. Morton turned her ankle on stage prior to the first preview. Jennifer had learned all the lines and after a rushed blocking rehearsal, kept the curtain up for the first preview audience in stellar fashion. To quote the wonderful stage manager, Laura Glenn, "She was a total professional and I was so grateful she was there."
Among Jennifer's favorite playwrights are Tennessee Williams, Edward Albee and newcomer Jen Silverman, whose play Witch will get a world premiere production at Writers Theatre in the fall.
Two items of show biz interest - The Play That Goes Wrong is closing on Broadway in August. One of the most hilarious shows that Gary and Frank have ever seen, a national tour is scheduled so don't miss this gem of a show if it comes to your town. And the five-and-a-half hour adaptation of Roberto Bolano's mammoth novel 2066 can be seen on streaming video soon. In an unusual arrangement, a filmed version of the Goodman Theatre's production will be available free, unlimited streaming for at least two years. Frank was a big fan of this production. You may have to watch in installments given it's extraordinary length, but you're unlikely to see another production of it anywhere any time soon.
Jennifer has created and performs a one-woman show called Excuse My Dust, A Dorothy Parker Portfolio, in which she embodies the writer and humorist in an evening of theatrical monologues from Parker's writings. Dorothy Parker was an original member of the Algonquin Round Table and a unique coiner of the cutting remark. Gary and Betsy are going to the Red Orchid spring fundraiser at which Jennifer is performing selections from Excuse My Dust. More to report on our next episode.
We play a little Chat Pack with Jennifer and find that she would like to be a rock star for a month, a la Beyonce. And people often ask her how she learns all those lines!
Kiss of Death:
Anne V. Coates, Admired Editor of Acclaimed Movies
One of the most celebrated film editors of her era, Ms. Coates won an Oscar for her work on Lawrence of Arabia directed by David Lean and starring Peter O'Toole. The film editor's craft is often called "the invisible art," but is one of the most vital ingredients in the alchemy of filmmaking.The endlessly fascinating Jennifer Engstrom graces us in the Booth today. Jen is a long-time ensemble member of A Red Orchid Theatre (as is our last guest, playwright Brett Neveu). She has appeared in over a dozen productions there and at many other great Chicago theaters (as well as in productions in London and New York). She grew up on a farm outside of Huxley, Iowa and made her way to the big city via the College of DuPage theatre program, where she soon became active in the speech department. And who coached and encouraged her in a career in the performing arts? None other than our own Frank Tourangeau! Frank was a professor and head of the speech department during Jennifer’s time there and served as her mentor and teacher.

Frank relates how he cast her in the play Whose Life is it Anyway? as the lead made famous on Broadway and the West End by Tom Conti, and revived some years later with Mary Tyler Moore in the starring role. By all accounts, Jen was luminous in the part. BTW, when Gary was working in Emanuel Azenberg’soffice, he was a stand-in for Tom Conti for several rehearsals on the Broadway production.

In addition to her numerous acting roles, Jennifer has had an interesting career as an understudy around Chicago. We discuss her going on as Blanche DuBois at the last minute in a Writers Theatre production of A Streetcar Named Desire, directed by David Cromer. Though she knew the blocking and the lines well, her costumes had not been finished and there was a mad scramble to devise a proper wardrobe track for that performance (which Gary and producer Betsy were privileged to see!). She also stepped in for Amy Morton in the Steppenwolf Theatre production of Taylor Mac’s HIR when Ms. Morton turned her ankle on stage prior to the first preview. Jennifer had learned all the lines and after a rushed blocking rehearsal, kept the curtain up for the first preview audience in stellar fashion. To quote the wonderful stage manager, Laura Glenn, “She was a total professional and I was so grateful she was there.”

Among Jennifer’s favorite playwrights are Tennessee Williams, Edward Albee and newcomer Jen Silverman, whose play Witch will get a world premiere production at Writers Theatre in the fall.

Two items of show biz interest – The Play That Goes Wrong is closing on Broadway in August. One of the most hilarious shows that Gary and Frank have ever seen, a national tour is scheduled so don’t miss this gem of a show if it comes to your town. And the five-and-a-half hour adaptation of Roberto Bolano’s mammoth novel 2066 can be seen on streaming video soon. In an unusual arrangement, a filmed version of the Goodman Theatre’s production will be available free, unlimited streaming for at least two years. Frank was a big fan of this production. You may have to watch in installments given it’s extraordinary length, but you’re unlikely to see another production of it anywhere any time soon.

Jennifer has created and performs a one-woman show called Excuse My Dust, A Dorothy Parker Portfolio, in which she embodies the writer and humorist in an evening of theatrical monologues from Parker’s writings. Dorothy Parker was an original member of the Algonquin Round Table and a unique coiner of the cutting remark. Gary and Betsy are going to the Red Orchid spring fundraiser at which Jennifer is performing selections from Excuse My Dust. More to report on our next episode.

We play a little Chat Pack with Jennifer and find that she would like to be a rock star for a month, a la Beyonce. And people often ask her how she learns all those lines!

One of the most celebrated film editors of her era, Ms. Coates won an Oscar for her work on Lawrence of Arabia directed by David Lean and starring Peter O’Toole. The film editor’s craft is often called “the invisible art,” but is one of the most vital ingredients in the alchemy of filmmaking. “Lawrence” contains one of the most celebrated editing moments in the world, involving an onscreen juxtaposition of the kind known as a “match cut”. Indeed, the edit involves an actual match and flame. Look for it in the first half hour of the film. Our favorite obituary writer and friend of the show Margalit Fox has crafted her usual stirring profile for the New York Times. Read the full obituary here. Anne V. Coates was 92.

]]>The endlessly fascinating Jennifer Engstrom graces us in the Booth today. Jen is a long-time ensemble member of A Red Orchid Theatre (as is our last guest, playwright Brett Neveu). She has appeared in over a dozen productions there and at many other gr...Jennifer Engstrom graces us in the Booth today. Jen is a long-time ensemble member of A Red Orchid Theatre (as is our last guest, playwright Brett Neveu). She has appeared in over a dozen productions there and at many other great Chicago theaters (as well as in productions in London and New York). She grew up on a farm outside of Huxley, Iowa and made her way to the big city via the College of DuPage theatre program, where she soon became active in the speech department. And who coached and encouraged her in a career in the performing arts? None other than our own Frank Tourangeau! Frank was a professor and head of the speech department during Jennifer's time there and served as her mentor and teacher.

Frank relates how he cast her in the play Whose Life is it Anyway? as the lead made famous on Broadway and the West End by Tom Conti, and revived some years later with Mary Tyler Moore in the starring role. By all accounts, Jen was luminous in the part. BTW, when Gary was working in Emanuel Azenberg's office, he was a stand-in for Tom Conti for several rehearsals on the Broadway production.

In addition to her numerous acting roles, Jennifer has had an interesting career as an understudy around Chicago. We discuss her going on as Blanche DuBois at the last minute in a Writers Theatre production of A Streetcar Named Desire, directed by David Cromer. Though she knew the blocking and the lines well, her costumes had not been finished and there was a mad scramble to devise a proper wardrobe track for that performance (which Gary and producer Betsy were privileged to see!). She also stepped in for Amy Morton in the Steppenwolf Theatre production of Taylor Mac's HIR when Ms. Morton turned her ankle on stage prior to the first preview. Jennifer had learned all the lines and after a rushed blocking rehearsal, kept the curtain up for the first preview audience in stellar fashion. To quote the wonderful stage manager, Laura Glenn, "She was a total professional and I was so grateful she was there."

Among Jennifer's favorite playwrights are Tennessee Williams, Edward Albee and newcomer Jen Silverman, whose play Witch will get a world premiere production at Writers Theatre in the fall.

Two items of show biz interest - The Play That Goes Wrong is closing on Broadway in August. One of the most hilarious shows that Gary and Frank have ever seen, a national tour is scheduled so don't miss this gem of a show if it comes to your town. And the five-and-a-half hour adaptation of Roberto Bolano's mammoth novel 2066 can be seen on streaming video soon. In an unusual arrangement, a filmed version of the Goodman Theatre's production will be available free, unlimited streaming for at least two years. Frank was a big fan of this production. You may have to watch in installments given it's extraordinary length, but you're unlikely to see another production of it anywhere any time soon.

Jennifer has created and performs a one-woman show called Excuse My Dust, A Dorothy Parker Portfolio, in which she embodies the writer and humorist in an evening of theatrical monologues from Parker's writings. Dorothy Parker wa...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau54:08To Catch a Fish – Playwright Brett Neveu – Episode 77https://booth-one.com/2018/05/catch-fish-playwright-brett-neveu-episode-77/
Mon, 14 May 2018 19:24:38 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2994We were thrilled to welcome Brett Neveu to the booth just two days after being in the audience for the press opening of his marvelous new play, To Catch A Fish at Timeline Theatre. This production, masterfully directed by Ron OJ Parson, features one of the best ensemble casts we've ever seen, with standout performances by Geno Walker, Al'Jaleel McGhee, Tiffany Addison, and Linda Bright Clay. We recently saw Al'Jaleel and Linda in Antoinette Nwandu's Breach at Victory Gardens. What a treat to see their work again so soon! Based on a true news story set in Milwaukee, Brett's play is about family and love and explores different types of love in a profound and very moving way.
Timeline's 99 seat theatre makes for an intimate experience. All the seats are good. The show runs through July 1 and is an absolute must see!
This play came out of the Playwrights Collective at Timeline, which sounds like a very cool process for the writers.
Brett, like our friend and recent guest Stuart Dybek, teaches writing at Northwestern University. He teaches classes in writing plays, television, and films. We are hoping to sit in on a class!
Brett is a member of A Red Orchid's ensemble and has done 10 world premieres there. He has been interviewed by Booth One friend and guest, Mark Larson, for his book about Ensemble in Chicago Theatre and shares some of his insights about being part of an ensemble. A Red Orchid's theatre space is quite small and intimate, which sparks Brett's inspiration. As he says, "It challenges the actors and audience to communicate in a dangerous and interesting way."
He studied writing at the University of Iowa along with some other amazing playwrights who are his good friends, such as Rebecca Gilman and Naomi Wallace.
Brett plays in a band called The Last Afternoons. Multi-talented much?
Kiss of Death: Florence Berman:
What a story! Florence Berman and her husband Maurie, started SuperDawg in 1948 as a way to pay the bills as they were going through school at Northwestern. All these years later, it is iconic. And we are happy to report that Brett Neveau and his daughter consider it to be an all-time favorite place. Read her beautiful obit by Maureen O'Donnell here.We were thrilled to welcome Brett Neveu to the booth just two days after being in the audience for the press opening of his marvelous new play, To Catch A Fish at Timeline Theatre. This production, masterfully directed by Ron OJ Parson, features one of the best ensemble casts we’ve ever seen, with standout performances by Geno Walker, Al’Jaleel McGhee, Tiffany Addison, and Linda Bright Clay. We recently saw Al’Jaleel and Linda in Antoinette Nwandu’sBreach at Victory Gardens. What a treat to see their work again so soon! Based on a true news story set in Milwaukee, Brett’s play is about family and love and explores different types of love in a profound and very moving way.

Timeline’s 99 seat theatre makes for an intimate experience. All the seats are good. The show runs through July 1 and is an absolute must see!

This play came out of the Playwrights Collective at Timeline, which sounds like a very cool process for the writers.

Brett, like our friend and recent guest Stuart Dybek, teaches writing at Northwestern University. He teaches classes in writing plays, television, and films. We are hoping to sit in on a class!

Brett is a member of A Red Orchid‘s ensemble and has done 10 world premieres there. He has been interviewed by Booth One friend and guest, Mark Larson, for his book about Ensemble in Chicago Theatre and shares some of his insights about being part of an ensemble. A Red Orchid’s theatre space is quite small and intimate, which sparks Brett’s inspiration. As he says, “It challenges the actors and audience to communicate in a dangerous and interesting way.”

He studied writing at the University of Iowa along with some other amazing playwrights who are his good friends, such as Rebecca Gilman and Naomi Wallace.

Brett plays in a band called The Last Afternoons. Multi-talented much?

Kiss of Death: Florence Berman:

What a story! Florence Berman and her husband Maurie, started SuperDawg in 1948 as a way to pay the bills as they were going through school at Northwestern. All these years later, it is iconic. And we are happy to report that Brett Neveau and his daughter consider it to be an all-time favorite place. Read her beautiful obit by Maureen O’Donnell here.

]]>We were thrilled to welcome Brett Neveu to the booth just two days after being in the audience for the press opening of his marvelous new play, To Catch A Fish at Timeline Theatre. This production, masterfully directed by Ron OJ Parson,
We were thrilled to welcome Brett Neveu to the booth just two days after being in the audience for the press opening of his marvelous new play, To Catch A Fish at Timeline Theatre. This production, masterfully directed by Ron OJ Parson, features one of the best ensemble casts we've ever seen, with standout performances by Geno Walker, Al'Jaleel McGhee, Tiffany Addison, and Linda Bright Clay. We recently saw Al'Jaleel and Linda in Antoinette Nwandu's Breach at Victory Gardens. What a treat to see their work again so soon! Based on a true news story set in Milwaukee, Brett's play is about family and love and explores different types of love in a profound and very moving way.

Timeline's 99 seat theatre makes for an intimate experience. All the seats are good. The show runs through July 1 and is an absolute must see!

This play came out of the Playwrights Collective at Timeline, which sounds like a very cool process for the writers.

Brett, like our friend and recent guest Stuart Dybek, teaches writing at Northwestern University. He teaches classes in writing plays, television, and films. We are hoping to sit in on a class!

Brett is a member of A Red Orchid's ensemble and has done 10 world premieres there. He has been interviewed by Booth One friend and guest, Mark Larson, for his book about Ensemble in Chicago Theatre and shares some of his insights about being part of an ensemble. A Red Orchid's theatre space is quite small and intimate, which sparks Brett's inspiration. As he says, "It challenges the actors and audience to communicate in a dangerous and interesting way."

He studied writing at the University of Iowa along with some other amazing playwrights who are his good friends, such as Rebecca Gilman and Naomi Wallace.

Brett plays in a band called The Last Afternoons. Multi-talented much?

Kiss of Death: Florence Berman:

What a story! Florence Berman and her husband Maurie, started SuperDawg in 1948 as a way to pay the bills as they were going through school at Northwestern. All these years later, it is iconic. And we are happy to report that Brett Neveau and his daughter consider it to be an all-time favorite place. Read her beautiful obit by Maureen O'Donnell here. ]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau57:02Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves – Episode 76https://booth-one.com/2018/05/gypsys-tramps-thieves-episode-76/
Thu, 03 May 2018 21:12:00 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2957Gary reports on the wonderful time we had at the Writers Theatre Gala at the Four Seasons. We were guests of Mary Pat & Andy Studdert. It was such a fun evening, featuring sensational entertainment with a Motown theme. Our table mates were all a blast, including great Chicago actor, Rob Lindley.
Gary also profiles Mary Pat, who is Booth One's Creative Consultant. We met her doing a live podcast at Writers during their production of Company. Hear excerpts from that event on episode 39. Mary Pat was in the audience and was excellent at the Sondheim trivia contest. She's been a friend, fan, and extremely helpful advisor ever since. She is also a magnificent photographer and has taken some unforgettable shots of elephants (our favorite) in Africa as well other wildlife and nature photos. She mounts these photos on greeting cards and has started to make boxed sets. Mary Pat is launching a business with these cards as well as totally unique gift tags (also made from the photos). You'll be the first to hear how you can purchase those.
Speaking of photos, Peggy Vagenius, who shot Gary and Betsy's wedding (beautifully and was so much fun!), is in the studio to do a photo shoot with Gary and Frank (their first together).
"The Cher Show" is running in Chicago from June 12 - July 15 before moving to Broadway. Frank is a huge fan and has tickets for July 1st. We look forward to his report! Did you know that Cher's Mom was an actress who appeared on "I Love Lucy"? The episode he describes which was filmed in Paris sounds fabulous! Check out Georgia Holt's Wiki. What a story! For starters, her mother was 13 when she had her.
Stormy Daniels is coming to the Admiral in Chicago in June as part of her current strip club tour. Gary is hoping to go and do a remote broadcast. Details to follow. Frank will be in Prague, so GZ will be looking for another date.
We talk about the ritual of "The Gypsy Robe", a great Broadway tradition for long-serving chorus members. Check out the really interesting description of the rules here. Frank has a good friend Brian O'Brien, who has been a robe recipient!
Basking sharks have recently been seen aggregating in the Atlantic from Nova Scotia to Long Island. They are HUGE, but Gary of course does not believe they are not dangerous to humans. One of our listeners, Mary Lesch, has been spotted wearing a T-shirt that says, "Lake Michigan - no sharks". Another statement Gary is leery about.
Frank reviews a play called "Women Alone Laughing Eating Salad", which features his friend and former student Jen Engstrom, someone we have long admired for her work as an ensemble member of A Red Orchid Theatre and with director David Cromer. Frank recommends it highly. Running through May 12.
Kiss of Death:
Milos Forman, One of Gary's heroes!
"A filmmaker who challenged Hollywood with his subversive touch and twice directed movies that won the Oscar for best picture, died on Friday in a hospital in Danbury, Conn. He was 86."
Gary reports on the wonderful time we had at the Writers Theatre Gala at the Four Seasons. We were guests of Mary Pat & Andy Studdert. It was such a fun evening, featuring sensational entertainment with a Motown theme. Our table mates were all a blast, including great Chicago actor, Rob Lindley.

Gary also profiles Mary Pat, who is Booth One’s Creative Consultant. We met her doing a live podcast at Writers during their production of Company. Hear excerpts from that event on episode 39. Mary Pat was in the audience and was excellent at the Sondheim trivia contest. She’s been a friend, fan, and extremely helpful advisor ever since. She is also a magnificent photographer and has taken some unforgettable shots of elephants (our favorite) in Africa as well other wildlife and nature photos. She mounts these photos on greeting cards and has started to make boxed sets. Mary Pat is launching a business with these cards as well as totally unique gift tags (also made from the photos). You’ll be the first to hear how you can purchase those.

Speaking of photos, Peggy Vagenius, who shot Gary and Betsy’s wedding (beautifully and was so much fun!), is in the studio to do a photo shoot with Gary and Frank (their first together).

“The Cher Show” is running in Chicago from June 12 – July 15 before moving to Broadway. Frank is a huge fan and has tickets for July 1st. We look forward to his report! Did you know that Cher’s Mom was an actress who appeared on “I Love Lucy”? The episode he describes which was filmed in Paris sounds fabulous! Check out Georgia Holt’s Wiki. What a story! For starters, her mother was 13 when she had her.

Stormy Daniels is coming to the Admiral in Chicago in June as part of her current strip club tour. Gary is hoping to go and do a remote broadcast. Details to follow. Frank will be in Prague, so GZ will be looking for another date.

We talk about the ritual of “The Gypsy Robe”, a great Broadway tradition for long-serving chorus members. Check out the really interesting description of the rules here. Frank has a good friendBrian O’Brien, who has been a robe recipient!

Basking sharks have recently been seen aggregating in the Atlantic from Nova Scotia to Long Island. They are HUGE, but Gary of course does not believe they are not dangerous to humans. One of our listeners, Mary Lesch, has been spotted wearing a T-shirt that says, “Lake Michigan – no sharks”. Another statement Gary is leery about.

Frank reviews a play called “Women Alone Laughing Eating Salad”, which features his friend and former studentJen Engstrom, someone we have long admired for her work as an ensemble member of A Red Orchid Theatre and with director David Cromer. Frank recommends it highly. Running through May 12.

“A filmmaker who challenged Hollywood with his subversive touch and twice directed movies that won the Oscar for best picture, died on Friday in a hospital in Danbury, Conn. He was 86.”

]]>Gary reports on the wonderful time we had at the Writers Theatre Gala at the Four Seasons. We were guests of Mary Pat & Andy Studdert. It was such a fun evening, featuring sensational entertainment with a Motown theme.Gary also profiles Mary Pat, who is Booth One's Creative Consultant. We met her doing a live podcast at Writers during their production of Company. Hear excerpts from that event on episode 39. Mary Pat was in the audience and was excellent at the Sondheim trivia contest. She's been a friend, fan, and extremely helpful advisor ever since. She is also a magnificent photographer and has taken some unforgettable shots of elephants (our favorite) in Africa as well other wildlife and nature photos. She mounts these photos on greeting cards and has started to make boxed sets. Mary Pat is launching a business with these cards as well as totally unique gift tags (also made from the photos). You'll be the first to hear how you can purchase those.

Speaking of photos, Peggy Vagenius, who shot Gary and Betsy's wedding (beautifully and was so much fun!), is in the studio to do a photo shoot with Gary and Frank (their first together).

"The Cher Show" is running in Chicago from June 12 - July 15 before moving to Broadway. Frank is a huge fan and has tickets for July 1st. We look forward to his report! Did you know that Cher's Mom was an actress who appeared on "I Love Lucy"? The episode he describes which was filmed in Paris sounds fabulous! Check out Georgia Holt's Wiki. What a story! For starters, her mother was 13 when she had her.

Stormy Daniels is coming to the Admiral in Chicago in June as part of her current strip club tour. Gary is hoping to go and do a remote broadcast. Details to follow. Frank will be in Prague, so GZ will be looking for another date.

We talk about the ritual of "The Gypsy Robe", a great Broadway tradition for long-serving chorus members. Check out the really interesting description of the rules here. Frank has a good friend Brian O'Brien, who has been a robe recipient!

Basking sharks have recently been seen aggregating in the Atlantic from Nova Scotia to Long Island. They are HUGE, but Gary of course does not believe they are not dangerous to humans. One of our listeners, Mary Lesch, has been spotted wearing a T-shirt that says, "Lake Michigan - no sharks". Another statement Gary is leery about.

ENG 307 – Advanced Creative Writing: Fabulous Fiction

Course Description: Fabulous Fiction focuses on writing that departs from realism. Often the subject matter of such writing explores states of mind that are referred to as non-ordinary reality. A wide variety of genres and sub-genres fall under this heading: fabulism, myth, fairy tales, fantasy, science fiction, speculative fiction, horror, the grotesque, the supernatural, surrealism, etc. The aim in 307 is to discern and employ writing techniques that overarch these various genres, to study the subject through doing—by writing your own fabulist stories. Many of these genres overlap. For instance, they are all rooted in the tale, a kind of story that goes back to primitive sources. They all speculate: they ask the question, What If? They all are stories that demand invention, which, along with the word transformation, will be a key term in the course. The invention might be a monster, a method of time travel, an alien world, etc., but with rare exceptions the story will demand an invention and that invention will often also be the central image of the story. In discussing how these stories work we will also be learning some of the most basic, primitive moves in storytelling. To get you going I will be bringing in exercises that employ fabulist techniques and hopefully will promote stories. These time-tested techniques will be your entrances—your rabbit holes and magic doorways—into the figurative. You will be asked to keep a dream journal, which will serve as basis for one of the exercises. Besides the exercises, two full-length stories will be required, as well as written critiques of one another’s work. Because we all serve to make up an audience for the writer, attendance is mandatory.

This time, Stuart has brought two short stories written by Fabulous Fictions students – “Come Up Here” by Rex Shannon and “Mirror” by Katilin Jennrich – and we offer the rare and thrilling treat of having Stuart reading these works during the episode.

First, though, we discuss Frank’s recent trip to downstate Illinois where he judged the State Drama Finals in Peoria. While there at the Civic Center, Frank stumbled upon the National Alpaca Show presented by the Alpaca Owners Association. After spending time among these furry animals, Frank is now somewhat of an expert in types and breeds. No souvenirs were brought back, but Frank does have a new-found appreciation for these warm and fuzzy creatures.

Gary is happy to say that the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities have been refunded by Congress, despite the efforts of the Trump White House to gut these cultural organizations, which as Stuart says are critical to our humanity. Both endowments saw a slight increase of about $3 million dollars in their funding levels, to about $153 million dollars each for the fiscal year. Great news indeed for these necessary and vital organizations and the art institutions they support. Read more about this story here.

Stuart discusses in detail some of the key tenets of his course, including the universal themes of fairy tales along with the use of magic objects and magic portal concept. He tells us that the active use of “symbolism” be restricted to the reader, not the writer.

Stuart believes reading is a separate and equally important art form from writing. As in Episode 37, Stuart talks about “transformation” being a key term in his course and how it is the cornestone of fiction writing. (These notes do not do justice to his eloquent discourse on writing and teaching.)

One of his favorite and most influential films is Chris Marker’s La Jetee, a 1962 French film that is constructed almost entirely from still photos, and tells the story of a post-nuclear war experiment in time travel. It is 28 minutes long and shot in black and white. Stuart tells us that the dystopian themes in today’s television, movies and fiction are highly inspirational to a whole generation of young writers today, and that the post-apocalyptic genre has influenced their writing and cultural references.

Stuart asks his students to keep dream journals, which leads to a lively discussion of our most memorable dreams. Gary once dreamed that he had written the “perfect” musical and it was fully imagined in his dream. However, upon waking, the vision vanished and now is only a vague notion. It pays to write this stuff down! Stuart sometimes dreams that he speaks a foreign language fluently.

Gary reports on what at terrible time in history it is to be a clown, having witnessed the shuttering of the Ringling Bros. Circus, the layoffs of regional Ronald McDonalds, and the decades of portrayals of depressed, malevolent and crazed clowns in movies, on TV and in real life(see photo!). However, at the recent World Clown Association convention in Minneapolis, 240 entertainers gathered to celebrate their craft and consider the future of clown-dom. Ultimately, they’ve decided that clowning will survive, as there’s something int he human spirit that wants to make people laugh and be happy. So go hug a clown today and don’t let this ancient art form drift away.

From the early 50s, Audrey Morris’ delicate piano and forceful voice was an asset to any intimate Chicago club, bucking the current taste for bawdy chanteuses and cultivating a repertoire of obsure, understated material. Morris’ devotion to the essence of a song won her the admiration of artists more celebrated than she. Morris came of age in an era when jazz performance and classic songwriting were ubiquitous in popular culture. The introspective, somewhat melancholy quality of Morris’ work, as well as her movie star good looks, worked to her advantage, drawing audiences to her mystique. The extraordinary subtlety of her vocals, sophistication of her pianism and worldly wise manner of her delivery made her a subject of fascination to visiting jazz stars. She gave her last public performance in April 2017, in an Orchestra Hall tribute to Oscar Peterson. Audrey Morris was 89. Read Howard Reich’s full tribute article here.

]]>Booth One proudly welcomes back to the program writer and teacher Stuart Dybek. Stuart previously appeared on Episode 37, where he spoke about the art of the short story and his approach and inspirations for writing fiction and poetry.Booth One proudly welcomes back to the program writer and teacher Stuart Dybek. Stuart previously appeared on Episode 37, where he spoke about the art of the short story and his approach and inspirations for writing fiction and poetry. During that podcast, Stuart referenced a number of notable stories that have come out of his Northwestern University undergraduate writing course called "Fabulous Fiction." Here is the NU course description:
ENG 307 – Advanced Creative Writing: Fabulous Fiction
Course Description: Fabulous Fiction focuses on writing that departs from realism. Often the subject matter of such writing explores states of mind that are referred to as non-ordinary reality. A wide variety of genres and sub-genres fall under this heading: fabulism, myth, fairy tales, fantasy, science fiction, speculative fiction, horror, the grotesque, the supernatural, surrealism, etc. The aim in 307 is to discern and employ writing techniques that overarch these various genres, to study the subject through doing—by writing your own fabulist stories. Many of these genres overlap. For instance, they are all rooted in the tale, a kind of story that goes back to primitive sources. They all speculate: they ask the question, What If? They all are stories that demand invention, which, along with the word transformation, will be a key term in the course. The invention might be a monster, a method of time travel, an alien world, etc., but with rare exceptions the story will demand an invention and that invention will often also be the central image of the story. In discussing how these stories work we will also be learning some of the most basic, primitive moves in storytelling. To get you going I will be bringing in exercises that employ fabulist techniques and hopefully will promote stories. These time-tested techniques will be your entrances—your rabbit holes and magic doorways—into the figurative. You will be asked to keep a dream journal, which will serve as basis for one of the exercises. Besides the exercises, two full-length stories will be required, as well as written critiques of one another's work. Because we all serve to make up an audience for the writer, attendance is mandatory.

This time, Stuart has brought two short stories written by Fabulous Fictions students - "Come Up Here" by Rex Shannon and "Mirror" by Katilin Jennrich - and we offer the rare and thrilling treat of having Stuart reading these works during the episode.

First, though, we discuss Frank's recent trip to downstate Illinois where he judged the State Drama Finals in Peoria. While there at the Civic Center, Frank stumbled upon the National Alpaca Show presented by the Alpaca Owners Association. After spending time among these furry animals, Frank is now somewhat of an expert in types and breeds. No souvenirs were brought back, but Frank does have a new-found appreciation for these warm and fuzzy creatures.

Julia attended Northwestern University and worked briefly at Second City before being scooped up by Lorne Michaels for Saturday Night Live, along with her husband Brad Hall and the two other members of their storefront Practical Theater Company. Four people asked at once is remarkable. Check out some footage of this here.

Woven throughout this update of Mark’s progress on his book, “Ensemble – An Oral History of Chicago Theatre” are anecdotes and quotes from amazing artists about what it’s like to have Chicago roots. And how the fun part was really before big success for many of them.

Gary and Mark also discuss seeing recent productions of Traitor at A Red Orchid, An Enemy of the People at the Goodman, and The Beauty Queen of Lenane at Northlight.

Michael Shannon directed Brett Neveu’s Traitor, which was an adaptation of Enemy of the People. Mark describes the trip the audience took for this performance and we are very sorry to have missed it. He also talks about Michael, who was a major supporting actor in Best Picture award winning movie, The Shape of Water, skipping the Oscars to come to the closing night performance of Traitor, then watching the awards on muteat the legendary Old Town Ale House.

Gary and Mark talk about theatre in these times of Trump. Mark points us to an excellent article in the New York Times in which Rachel Schteir describes several productions of An Enemy of the People as “timely as a tweet.”

Mark will teach a seminar to the 10 winners of the Golden Appleawards. If you haven’t read about this amazing project, started by Mike and Pat Koldyke, it is absolutely inspiring.

Speaking of inspiration, Mark was blown away when he sat in on one of Studs Terkel’s interviews at WFMT. His astonishing archive of radio interviews, what Gary and Mark call “A walk through the 20th century” will be available to the public on May 16. The website will be studsterkel.org.

Gary shares a New Yorker Talk of the Town piece about Extreme Theater Goer and hoarder of shows, Joanne Veniziano, along with excellent commentary from friend of the show, Nancy Needles.

Mark speaks eloquently about Emma Gonzalez and the other student speakers at March for our Lives. Listen and watch these breathtaking speeches.

Kiss Of Death:

Russ Solomon, Founder of Tower Records. His legacy was so great for so many of us. Read his NYT obit here.

]]>Gary welcomes back to the Booth author Mark Larson, whose oral history is a chronicle of the past, present and future of Chicago Theatre. Having recently turned in his manuscript to date, Mark had interviews come through with Pulitzer Prize winning pla...Tracy Letts, and actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus. It truly is a never ending story.

Julia attended Northwestern University and worked briefly at Second City before being scooped up by Lorne Michaels for Saturday Night Live, along with her husband Brad Hall and the two other members of their storefront Practical Theater Company. Four people asked at once is remarkable. Check out some footage of this here.

Woven throughout this update of Mark's progress on his book, "Ensemble - An Oral History of Chicago Theatre" are anecdotes and quotes from amazing artists about what it's like to have Chicago roots. And how the fun part was really before big success for many of them.

Gary and Mark also discuss seeing recent productions of Traitor at A Red Orchid, An Enemy of the People at the Goodman, and The Beauty Queen of Lenane at Northlight.

Michael Shannon directed Brett Neveu's Traitor, which was an adaptation of Enemy of the People. Mark describes the trip the audience took for this performance and we are very sorry to have missed it. He also talks about Michael, who was a major supporting actor in Best Picture award winning movie, The Shape of Water, skipping the Oscars to come to the closing night performance of Traitor, then watching the awards on mute at the legendary Old Town Ale House.

Gary and Mark talk about theatre in these times of Trump. Mark points us to an excellent article in the New York Times in which Rachel Schteir describes several productions of An Enemy of the People as "timely as a tweet."

Mark will teach a seminar to the 10 winners of the Golden Apple awards. If you haven't read about this amazing project, started by Mike and Pat Koldyke, it is absolutely inspiring.

Speaking of inspiration, Mark was blown away when he sat in on one of Studs Terkel's interviews at WFMT. His astonishing archive of radio interviews, what Gary and Mark call "A walk through the 20th century" will be available to the public on May 16. The website will be studsterkel.org.

Gary shares a New Yorker Talk of the Town piece about Extreme Theater Goer and hoarder of shows, Joanne Veniziano, along with excellent commentary from friend of the show, Nancy Needles.

Mark speaks eloquently about Emma Gonzalez and the other student speakers at March for our Lives. Listen and watch these breathtaking speeches.

Kiss Of Death:

Russ Solomon, Founder of Tower Records. His legacy was so great for so many of us. Read his NYT obit here.

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau52:14A Daring Young Man – Aerialist Javen Ulambayar – Episode 73https://booth-one.com/2018/03/daring-young-man-aerialist-javen-ulambayar-episode-73/
Mon, 05 Mar 2018 04:40:41 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2877Aerialist, circus performer and actor Javen Ulambayar visits Booth One this week with Gary and Frank, as we celebrate our 3rd Anniversary on the air!
Javen is a native of Mongolia and emigrated to the United States when he was 17 with his parents. His mother is world-famous contortionist Oyunchimeg "Oyuna" Yadamjav, one of Mongolia's most decorated contortionists, winner of the Silver Clown Award at the International Circus Festival of Monte Carlo. Javen became interested in the circus arts only after moving to the US, where he first studied at the famous Circus Juventas school in St. Paul, MN. After receiving a degree in Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota, Javen continued his training and has been hooked on circus performance ever since.
Now a resident of Skokie, IL and a faculty member at the famed Actors Gymnasium in Evanston, Javen's specialties are the Straps and the Chinese Pole. He put both these skills to remarkable use while performing in the Lookingglass Theatre's production of Moby Dick. Javen was integral to incorporating circus arts into the production, working with Moby Dick's choreographer Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi and Lookingglass director, David Catlin. Sylvia and David have both been featured guests on Booth One.
Gary and Frank discuss the new Antoinette Nwandu play Breach, which they just saw at Victory Gardens Theatre. Nwandu describes the play as "a love letter to black women." From the author of the recent Steppenwolf play Pass Over, Nwandu's Breach is a funny, moving and revealing look at the life of a young black woman as she navigates the ups and downs of relationships and life. With marvelous and memorable characters, she takes us along as Margaret "recovers from self-hate" (from the sub-title). Beautifully staged by director Lisa Portes, Breach cements Nwandu's reputation as one of America's best emerging playwrights. She recently won the 2017-2018 Paula Vogel Playwriting Award. This production runs through March 11 and is highly recommended. Listen to a great interview with Antoinette and Pass Over Director Danya Taymor on episode 59 of Booth One.
Honorable mention goes to the August Wilson Monologue Competition, held at The Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place. The regional competition is open to all students from Chicago Area High Schools. Producer Betsy Ingram reports that all 21 competitors were stellar! The number one and two finishers will be competing in the National Finals held at the August Wilson Theatre on Broadway on May 7 and are open to the public. Best of luck to these two wonderful performers who will represent Chicago. Friend of the show and previous guest Robert Cornelius coached Chisom Chima, who finished second and he is ecstatic for her.
We break out the Chat Pack for a couple of rounds of probing questions.
Kiss of Death:
Rick McKay, Who Documented Memories of Broadway.
Mr. McKay recorded hundreds of hours of interviews with dozens of actors about their recollections of New York theater, turning them into the 2004 documentary "Broadway: The Golden Age, by the Legends Who Were There". Click here to see the remarkable list of people he interviewed. McKay was a convivial, sympathetic interviewer, getting stars like Bea Arthur, Shirley MacLaine, Carol Burnett and Angela Lansbury to open up about their lives, always making it about them and their stories. Rick McKay was 62.
Aerialist, circus performer and actor Javen Ulambayar visits Booth One this week with Gary and Frank, as we celebrate our 3rd Anniversary on the air!

Javen is a native of Mongolia and emigrated to the United States when he was 17 with his parents. His mother is world-famous contortionist Oyunchimeg “Oyuna” Yadamjav, one of Mongolia’s most decorated contortionists, winner of the Silver Clown Award at the International Circus Festival of Monte Carlo. Javen became interested in the circus arts only after moving to the US, where he first studied at the famous Circus Juventas school in St. Paul, MN. After receiving a degree in Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota, Javen continued his training and has been hooked on circus performance ever since.

Now a resident of Skokie, IL and a faculty member at the famed Actors Gymnasium in Evanston, Javen’s specialties are the Straps and the Chinese Pole. He put both these skills to remarkable use while performing in the Lookingglass Theatre’s production of Moby Dick. Javen was integral to incorporating circus arts into the production, working with Moby Dick’s choreographer Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi and Lookingglass director, David Catlin. Sylvia and David have both been featured guests on Booth One.

Gary and Frank discuss the new Antoinette Nwandu play Breach, which they just saw at Victory Gardens Theatre. Nwandu describes the play as “a love letter to black women.” From the author of the recent Steppenwolf play Pass Over, Nwandu’s Breach is a funny, moving and revealing look at the life of a young black woman as she navigates the ups and downs of relationships and life. With marvelous and memorable characters, she takes us along as Margaret “recovers from self-hate” (from the sub-title). Beautifully staged by director Lisa Portes, Breach cements Nwandu’s reputation as one of America’s best emerging playwrights. She recently won the 2017-2018 Paula Vogel Playwriting Award. This production runs through March 11 and is highly recommended. Listen to a great interview with Antoinette and Pass Over Director Danya Taymor on episode 59 of Booth One.

Honorable mention goes to the August Wilson Monologue Competition, held at The Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place. The regional competition is open to all students from Chicago Area High Schools. Producer Betsy Ingram reports that all 21 competitors were stellar! The number one and two finishers will be competing in the National Finals held at the August Wilson Theatre on Broadway on May 7 and are open to the public. Best of luck to these two wonderful performers who will represent Chicago. Friend of the show and previous guest Robert Cornelius coached Chisom Chima, who finished second and he is ecstatic for her.

We break out the Chat Pack for a couple of rounds of probing questions.

Kiss of Death:

Rick McKay, Who Documented Memories of Broadway.

Mr. McKay recorded hundreds of hours of interviews with dozens of actors about their recollections of New York theater, turning them into the 2004 documentary “Broadway: The Golden Age, by the Legends Who Were There”. Click hereto see the remarkable list of people he interviewed. McKay was a convivial, sympathetic interviewer, getting stars like Bea Arthur, Shirley MacLaine, Carol Burnett and Angela Lansbury to open up about their lives, always making it about them and their stories. Rick McKay was 62.

]]>Aerialist, circus performer and actor Javen Ulambayar visits Booth One this week with Gary and Frank, as we celebrate our 3rd Anniversary on the air! - Javen is a native of Mongolia and emigrated to the United States when he was 17 with his parent...Javen Ulambayar visits Booth One this week with Gary and Frank, as we celebrate our 3rd Anniversary on the air!

Javen is a native of Mongolia and emigrated to the United States when he was 17 with his parents. His mother is world-famous contortionist Oyunchimeg "Oyuna" Yadamjav, one of Mongolia's most decorated contortionists, winner of the Silver Clown Award at the International Circus Festival of Monte Carlo. Javen became interested in the circus arts only after moving to the US, where he first studied at the famous Circus Juventas school in St. Paul, MN. After receiving a degree in Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota, Javen continued his training and has been hooked on circus performance ever since.

Now a resident of Skokie, IL and a faculty member at the famed Actors Gymnasium in Evanston, Javen's specialties are the Straps and the Chinese Pole. He put both these skills to remarkable use while performing in the Lookingglass Theatre's production of Moby Dick. Javen was integral to incorporating circus arts into the production, working with Moby Dick's choreographer Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi and Lookingglass director, David Catlin. Sylvia and David have both been featured guests on Booth One.

Gary and Frank discuss the new Antoinette Nwandu play Breach, which they just saw at Victory Gardens Theatre. Nwandu describes the play as "a love letter to black women." From the author of the recent Steppenwolf play Pass Over, Nwandu's Breach is a funny, moving and revealing look at the life of a young black woman as she navigates the ups and downs of relationships and life. With marvelous and memorable characters, she takes us along as Margaret "recovers from self-hate" (from the sub-title). Beautifully staged by director Lisa Portes, Breach cements Nwandu's reputation as one of America's best emerging playwrights. She recently won the 2017-2018 Paula Vogel Playwriting Award. This production runs through March 11 and is highly recommended. Listen to a great interview with Antoinette and Pass Over Director Danya Taymor on episode 59 of Booth One.

On a sad note, Gary announces that our dear Roscoe, founding co-host, will not be re-joining us in the Booth any time soon. Life happens and Roscoe continues to deal with some health challenges. We are wishing him the best and hope he can appear as a guest sometime soon. Gary gets down on one knee to propose to Frank Tourangeau that he becomes our new permanent co-host. And guess what? He said “Yes”! Frank is the best and we hope you enjoy this partnership. BTW, Frank was our producers’s theater mentor…How lucky are we that he is willing to be our new co-host.

Though snubbed for Best Director consideration this year for The Post, Steven Spielberg has announced a casting call for a remake of the classic musical, West Side Story. All you aspiring Marias, Tonys, Bernardos and Anitas, get yourselves out to Hollywood and you too could make movie history by starring in the new Tony Kushner adaptation. Jets and Sharks wanted!

We address the recent dismissal of long-time (34 years!) Chicago Sun-Times theatre critic Hedy Weiss. Sun-Times officials are apparently not going to replace this position, and instead use stringers and freelancers to cover the theatre scene in Chicago moving forward. This will undoubtedly result in reduced coverage for off-Loop companies and those trying to create a niche for themselves. This is a void that we at Booth One are anxious to fill with more episodes devoted to the burgeoning Chicago theatre scene and the artists who create it.

But the crux of today’s episode is devoted to reviewing the Oscar nominees and those that missed out. Frank and Gary have seen all the nominated Best Pictures and several other films of note throughout the year. We cover the following categories:Best Actor and Actress in a Leading RoleBest Actor and Actress in a Supporting RoleBest DirectorBest Adapted ScreenplayBest Original ScreenplayBest Picture

Mr. Smith’s humor was gentle but smart. What he brought to his stand-up comedy was the point of view of a gay man that wasn’t a victim, wasn’t the butt of the joke. He was making the joke. Born and raised in Buffalo, Mr. Smith made his groundbreaking appearance on “The Tonight Show With Jay Leno” in July 1994. He had the audience laughing from the start. Bob Smith succumbed to Lou Gehrig’s Disease. He was just 59.

]]>It's Oscar season, and Gary and Frank delve into the nominees, snubs and surprises for the 90th Annual Academy Awards. - On a sad note, Gary announces that our dear Roscoe, founding co-host, will not be re-joining us in the Booth any time soon.90th Annual Academy Awards.

On a sad note, Gary announces that our dear Roscoe, founding co-host, will not be re-joining us in the Booth any time soon. Life happens and Roscoe continues to deal with some health challenges. We are wishing him the best and hope he can appear as a guest sometime soon. Gary gets down on one knee to propose to Frank Tourangeau that he becomes our new permanent co-host. And guess what? He said "Yes"! Frank is the best and we hope you enjoy this partnership. BTW, Frank was our producers's theater mentor...How lucky are we that he is willing to be our new co-host.

Though snubbed for Best Director consideration this year for The Post, Steven Spielberg has announced a casting call for a remake of the classic musical, West Side Story. All you aspiring Marias, Tonys, Bernardos and Anitas, get yourselves out to Hollywood and you too could make movie history by starring in the new Tony Kushner adaptation. Jets and Sharks wanted!

We address the recent dismissal of long-time (34 years!) Chicago Sun-Times theatre critic Hedy Weiss. Sun-Times officials are apparently not going to replace this position, and instead use stringers and freelancers to cover the theatre scene in Chicago moving forward. This will undoubtedly result in reduced coverage for off-Loop companies and those trying to create a niche for themselves. This is a void that we at Booth One are anxious to fill with more episodes devoted to the burgeoning Chicago theatre scene and the artists who create it.

But the crux of today's episode is devoted to reviewing the Oscar nominees and those that missed out. Frank and Gary have seen all the nominated Best Pictures and several other films of note throughout the year. We cover the following categories:
Best Actor and Actress in a Leading Role
Best Actor and Actress in a Supporting Role
Best Director
Best Adapted Screenplay
Best Original Screenplay
Best Picture

Gary's biggest snub? Holly Hunter in The Big Sick. Frank's? Martin McDonagh as best director for Three Billboards. And they both agree that I, Tonya was robbed of a Best Picture nomination.

Kiss of Death

Bob Smith - Widely regarded as the first openly gay comic to perform on "The Tonight Show"

Mr. Smith's humor was gentle but smart. What he brought to his stand-up comedy was the point of view of a gay man that wasn't a victim, wasn't the butt of the joke. He was making the joke.]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau50:49Dynamic Duo – Delia Kropp and Penny Slusher – Episode 71https://booth-one.com/2018/01/dynamic-duo-delia-kropp-penny-slusher-episode-71/
Sun, 28 Jan 2018 21:00:54 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2811Actresses Delia Kropp and Penny Slusher join Gary and Frank in the Booth this week. Penny, a longtime favorite of ours, recently appeared in the Steppenwolf Theatre production of The Minutes, the new play from Tracy Letts. Delia was seen last season in a remarkable re-imagining of the Doug Wright play I Am My Own Wife at About Face Theatre, where the 30 characters were played by four actors rather than just one. Hers was a tour-de-force performance as Charlotte von Mahlsdorf, born Lothar Berfelde, who survived the Nazi and Communist regimes in East Berlin as a transgender woman, and the first time the role had been played by a transgender actress. Listen to hear the great story about how and why Delia proposed changing the way this Tony & Pulitzer prize winning play was presented.
Penny talks about growing up in Bristol, Tennessee, the "birthplace of country music", and the one-woman show she is writing about her childhood experiences and the extended family that raised her. With a working title of "A Porch Song", Penny hopes to capture the essence of Appalachian Bristol and her amazing upbringing among an apartment building full of relatives. Including her Memaw, who was the best friend of Mother Maybelle Carter. Click on the Bristol link above to read about all the cool things happening there.
Penny is an acting and auditioning coach with an approach that sounds like it would be not just effective, but fun too. She also does Intuitive Readings, using her innate gift for intuition and the things she learned watching her grandmother do "fortune telling." She is down to earth and positive about people's opportunities and challenges. If you'd like to schedule a session with Penny, go to www.pennyslusher.com and send her an email. Readings are usually done in her home, and she hopes you like cats (she has 2!).
Delia speaks candidly about her gender transition, her 10-year hiatus from acting, and the types of roles and opportunities she is now pursuing. Having known Penny since 1991, Delia credits her with helping ease and facilitate her transition, particularly within the Chicago theatre community. The group discusses gender in casting. Here at Booth One, we wonder whether there might be a place for Delia on Amazon's Transparent alongside her friend, the brilliant Alexandra Billings. Delia is at work on an exciting web project to help trans and cisgender theater artists to meet. An online resource site for actors and other members of creative teams to learn about each other. Find out more about Delia on her website Therealdelia.com.
Though we didn't talk about it on the episode, part of our Booth One research was to watch a great National Geographic documentary called The Gender Revolution. It is just excellent and we learned so much. Highly recommended!
Kiss of Death:
Mary Adelman, Fixer of Broken Typewriters, Owner of Osner Business Machines
For decades, Mrs. Adelman's shop was an emergency room for typists with bent keys, problematic platens and ruined ribbons. She attended to the typewriters of Isaac Bashivas Singer, David Mamet, Nora Ephron, Philip Roth, Joseph Heller, Peter Shaffer and Murray Schisgal.
The shop at 393 Amsterdam Avenue became an Upper West Side fixture in the lives of people desperate to keep the words flowing, and Mrs. Adelman was its centerpiece. "Every time you’d go there, it was always filled with people, that little shop — crammed with people,” one longtime customer, the playwright Peter Shaffer, the author of “Equus,” said in 2001. “It was like the cabin scene in ‘A Night at the Opera.’ You couldn’t get in the door.”
She was 89. Read James Barron's full NYT Obit here.
Actresses Delia Kropp and Penny Slusher join Gary and Frank in the Booth this week. Penny, a longtime favorite of ours, recently appeared in the Steppenwolf Theatre production of The Minutes, the new play from Tracy Letts. Delia was seen last season in a remarkable re-imagining of the Doug Wright play I Am My Own Wife at About Face Theatre, where the 30 characters were played by four actors rather than just one. Hers was a tour-de-force performance as Charlotte von Mahlsdorf, born Lothar Berfelde, who survived the Nazi and Communist regimes in East Berlin as a transgender woman, and the first time the role had been played by a transgender actress. Listen to hear the great story about how and why Delia proposed changing the way this Tony & Pulitzer prize winning play was presented.

Penny talks about growing up in Bristol, Tennessee, the “birthplace of country music”, and the one-woman show she is writing about her childhood experiences and the extended family that raised her. With a working title of “A Porch Song”, Penny hopes to capture the essence of Appalachian Bristol and her amazing upbringing among an apartment building full of relatives. Including her Memaw, who was the best friend of Mother Maybelle Carter. Click on the Bristol link above to read about all the cool things happening there.

Penny is an acting and auditioning coach with an approach that sounds like it would be not just effective, but fun too. She also does Intuitive Readings, using her innate gift for intuition and the things she learned watching her grandmother do “fortune telling.” She is down to earth and positive about people’s opportunities and challenges. If you’d like to schedule a session with Penny, go to www.pennyslusher.com and send her an email. Readings are usually done in her home, and she hopes you like cats (she has 2!).

Delia speaks candidly about her gender transition, her 10-year hiatus from acting, and the types of roles and opportunities she is now pursuing. Having known Penny since 1991, Delia credits her with helping ease and facilitate her transition, particularly within the Chicago theatre community. The group discusses gender in casting. Here at Booth One, we wonder whether there might be a place for Delia on Amazon’s Transparent alongside her friend, the brilliant Alexandra Billings. Delia is at work on an exciting web project to help trans and cisgender theater artists to meet. An online resource site for actors and other members of creative teams to learn about each other. Find out more about Delia on her website Therealdelia.com.

Though we didn’t talk about it on the episode, part of our Booth One research was to watch a great National Geographic documentary called The Gender Revolution. It is just excellent and we learned so much. Highly recommended!

The shop at 393 Amsterdam Avenue became an Upper West Side fixture in the lives of people desperate to keep the words flowing, and Mrs. Adelman was its centerpiece. “Every time you’d go there, it was always filled with people, that little shop — crammed with people,” one longtime customer, the playwright Peter Shaffer, the author of “Equus,” said in 2001. “It was like the cabin scene in ‘A Night at the Opera.’ You couldn’t get in the door.”

]]>Actresses Delia Kropp and Penny Slusher join Gary and Frank in the Booth this week. Penny, a longtime favorite of ours, recently appeared in the Steppenwolf Theatre production of The Minutes, the new play from Tracy Letts.

Actresses Delia Kropp and Penny Slusher join Gary and Frank in the Booth this week. Penny, a longtime favorite of ours, recently appeared in the Steppenwolf Theatre production of The Minutes, the new play from Tracy Letts. Delia was seen last season in a remarkable re-imagining of the Doug Wright play I Am My Own Wife at About Face Theatre, where the 30 characters were played by four actors rather than just one. Hers was a tour-de-force performance as Charlotte von Mahlsdorf, born Lothar Berfelde, who survived the Nazi and Communist regimes in East Berlin as a transgender woman, and the first time the role had been played by a transgender actress. Listen to hear the great story about how and why Delia proposed changing the way this Tony & Pulitzer prize winning play was presented.

Penny talks about growing up in Bristol, Tennessee, the "birthplace of country music", and the one-woman show she is writing about her childhood experiences and the extended family that raised her. With a working title of "A Porch Song", Penny hopes to capture the essence of Appalachian Bristol and her amazing upbringing among an apartment building full of relatives. Including her Memaw, who was the best friend of Mother Maybelle Carter. Click on the Bristol link above to read about all the cool things happening there.

Penny is an acting and auditioning coach with an approach that sounds like it would be not just effective, but fun too. She also does Intuitive Readings, using her innate gift for intuition and the things she learned watching her grandmother do "fortune telling." She is down to earth and positive about people's opportunities and challenges. If you'd like to schedule a session with Penny, go to www.pennyslusher.com and send her an email. Readings are usually done in her home, and she hopes you like cats (she has 2!).

Delia speaks candidly about her gender transition, her 10-year hiatus from acting, and the types of roles and opportunities she is now pursuing. Having known Penny since 1991, Delia credits her with helping ease and facilitate her transition, particularly within the Chicago theatre community. The group discusses gender in casting. Here at Booth One, we wonder whether there might be a place for Delia on Amazon's Transparent alongside her friend, the brilliant Alexandra Billings. Delia is at work on an exciting web project to help trans and cisgender theater artists to meet. An online resource site for actors and other members of creative teams to learn about each other. Find out more about Delia on her website Therealdelia.com.

Nelson Rodriguez is Artistic Director of Pride Films and Plays. Filmmaker Dan Pal is running the Pride Film Fest, which happens on the second Tuesday of each month. Check out the line-up for February’s festival here.

Pride Films and Plays brings a 4-show season of excellent LGBTQ programming to the Chicago theatre community. Housed at the Pride Arts Center at 4139 N. Broadway, PFP also hosts the aforementioned Pride Film Fest and rents its two spaces to other theater companies.

Dan Pal is an award-winning filmmaker and professor at DePaul and Moraine Valley Community College. Check out his website to see the fabulous Scotty & Josh trilogy and more. Here is Dan winning an award for his direction of Counting, which is the first film produced by Pride Films & Plays. It is on the festival circuit now and headed to the Santa Fe Film Festival in February, where it will open for Melanie Mayron’s new movie. We got a chance to screen this beautiful and moving short film. We’ll keep you posted when it becomes available to the public.

Nelson recently starred in a feature film called En Algun Lugar, which we can’t wait to see. He has performed in a one-man show depicting 7 gay immigrant characters called “Men on the Verge of a His-Panic Nervous Breakdown.” Would love to see this and hoping for a remount. Nelson has been featured as one of “30 Under 30” in the Windy City Times. Looking forward to all he will continue to bring to our community.

Pride Films and Plays was founded by David Zak, longtime artistic director of Bailiwick, who brought us so many memorable productions, including The Christmas Schooner, in which Roscoe, our founding co-host, created the role of Gus.

Chita Rivera and Seth Rudetsky did what sounded like an amazing show at Steppenwolf. We had to miss because of a conflict, but sent our friends and loyal listeners with only one request: that they write a short review. Gary shares the a few observations made by Virginia Gerst, Nancy Needles, and Kay Ellwein. We appreciate the excellent reporting and wish we’d been there with you. BTW, we interviewed Chita in episode 32. Check it out.

Frank Tourangeau, our new regular guest host, geeks out on I Love Lucy in a fascinating way. If you didn’t already know how the DesiLu empire started, you’ll hear it on this show. They also invented the rerun. Geniuses both.

Kiss of Death:

We close each episode with a tribute to a fascinating person who has recently passed away. Learn about Johnny Fox, sword swallower. Ick.

]]>Gary and Frank welcome two of the great leaders of Chicago's Pride Films & Plays to Booth One. - Nelson Rodriguez is Artistic Director of Pride Films and Plays. Filmmaker Dan Pal is running the Pride Film Fest,Pride Films & Plays to Booth One.

Nelson Rodriguez is Artistic Director of Pride Films and Plays. Filmmaker Dan Pal is running the Pride Film Fest, which happens on the second Tuesday of each month. Check out the line-up for February's festival here.

Pride Films and Plays brings a 4-show season of excellent LGBTQ programming to the Chicago theatre community. Housed at the Pride Arts Center at 4139 N. Broadway, PFP also hosts the aforementioned Pride Film Fest and rents its two spaces to other theater companies.

Dan Pal is an award-winning filmmaker and professor at DePaul and Moraine Valley Community College. Check out his website to see the fabulous Scotty & Josh trilogy and more. Here is Dan winning an award for his direction of Counting, which is the first film produced by Pride Films & Plays. It is on the festival circuit now and headed to the Santa Fe Film Festival in February, where it will open for Melanie Mayron's new movie. We got a chance to screen this beautiful and moving short film. We'll keep you posted when it becomes available to the public.

Nelson recently starred in a feature film called En Algun Lugar, which we can't wait to see. He has performed in a one-man show depicting 7 gay immigrant characters called "Men on the Verge of a His-Panic Nervous Breakdown." Would love to see this and hoping for a remount. Nelson has been featured as one of "30 Under 30" in the Windy City Times. Looking forward to all he will continue to bring to our community.

Pride Films and Plays was founded by David Zak, longtime artistic director of Bailiwick, who brought us so many memorable productions, including The Christmas Schooner, in which Roscoe, our founding co-host, created the role of Gus.

Chita Rivera and Seth Rudetsky did what sounded like an amazing show at Steppenwolf. We had to miss because of a conflict, but sent our friends and loyal listeners with only one request: that they write a short review. Gary shares the a few observations made by Virginia Gerst, Nancy Needles, and Kay Ellwein. We appreciate the excellent reporting and wish we'd been there with you. BTW, we interviewed Chita in episode 32. Check it out.

Frank Tourangeau, our new regular guest host, geeks out on I Love Lucy in a fascinating way. If you didn't already know how the DesiLu empire started, you'll hear it on this show. They also invented the rerun. Geniuses both.

Kiss of Death:

We close each episode with a tribute to a fascinating person who has recently passed a...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau50:45The Great White Way – Giving Thanks for Broadway and Beyond – Episode 69https://booth-one.com/2017/12/great-white-way-giving-thanks-broadway-beyond-episode-69/
Mon, 11 Dec 2017 02:26:19 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2720Mentor, Educator and Theatre aficionado Frank Tourangeau (Episode 54) returns and joins Gary as this week's co-host in the Booth. Gary and Betsy have just returned from a glorious Thanksgiving week in New York, and we recount the shows we saw and get Frank's take on his recent Broadway experiences.
In addition, we look in on the Chicago theater scene with such shows as Escape to Margaritaville (the Jimmy Buffett musical); Tracy Letts' new play at the Steppenwolf Theatre, The Minutes; a local Victory Gardens production of Fun Home; Significant Other at the Theatre Wit; and A Red Orchid Theatre's production of Wallace Shawn's Evening at the Talk House.
But back to Broadway - we first tell about seeing Donna Murphy, Bette Midler's alternate, in the splendid and beautiful Hello,Dolly! Frank and Gary both agree that this is one of the finest productions of a classic musical they have ever seen, regardless of who's playing the lead. The Band's Visit, recently opened at the Barrymore Theatre, elicits slightly conflicting opinions from Gary and Frank - Gary was a bit underwhelmed from his front row seat, while Frank from the mezzanine found the show charming and very moving. They agree that it may have been a difference of perspective.
Other New York shows we discuss are Time and The Conways with Elizabeth McGovern; Torch Song starring Michael Urie and a luminous Mercedes Ruhl; and the unseen but well-reviewed revival of Once on This Island by Flarety and Ahrens.
Frank tells us about his experiences at Film Festivals (he goes to a lot of them), like Toronto and Telluride. And he relates a brush-with-greatness story about running into Meryl Streep while standing in line to see one of her latest pictures. The Golden Globe nominations will be out just after this episode publishes. Gary and Frank talk about their choices for front-runners.
Christmas in San Diego will bring Frank close to one of his life-long dreams - SUMMER: The Donna Summer Musical, now playing at the La Jolla Playhouse. LaChanze stars as Diva Donna in this pre-Broadway engagement. Frank's excitement for this show is audibly palpable!
Kiss of Death:
Jim Nabors - Goofy Gomer on The Andy Griffith Show and Gomer Pyle - U.S.M.C
Nabors, a native Alabaman, found an entertainment niche playing clubs like The Horn in Santa Monica in the 1960s, with an act that mixed folksy Southern charm with a rich and unexpected baritone singing voice. Andy Griffith decided he would be perfect for a new character on his already-hit show, and Gomer Pyle, cousin of Goober, was born. Gomer proved immensely popular with the viewing public and appeared on and off for four seasons before being given his own show in a spin off. He later hosted a variety show on CBS, showcasing his splendid voice with songs like The Impossible Dream from Man of La Mancha. Mr. Nabors lived in Hawaii for nearly thirty years and owned a macadamia nut ranch in Hana on Maui. Jim Nabors was 87. Read full obituary here.
Mentor, Educator and Theatre aficionado Frank Tourangeau (Episode 54) returns and joins Gary as this week’s co-host in the Booth. Gary and Betsy have just returned from a glorious Thanksgiving week in New York, and we recount the shows we saw and get Frank’s take on his recent Broadway experiences.

In addition, we look in on the Chicago theater scene with such shows as Escape to Margaritaville (the Jimmy Buffett musical); Tracy Letts’ new play at the Steppenwolf Theatre, The Minutes; a local Victory Gardens production of Fun Home; Significant Other at the Theatre Wit; and A Red Orchid Theatre’s production of Wallace Shawn’s Evening at the Talk House.

But back to Broadway – we first tell about seeing Donna Murphy, Bette Midler‘s alternate, in the splendid and beautiful Hello,Dolly! Frank and Gary both agree that this is one of the finest productions of a classic musical they have ever seen, regardless of who’s playing the lead. The Band’s Visit, recently opened at the Barrymore Theatre, elicits slightly conflicting opinions from Gary and Frank – Gary was a bit underwhelmed from his front row seat, while Frank from the mezzanine found the show charming and very moving. They agree that it may have been a difference of perspective.

Other New York shows we discuss are Time and The Conways with Elizabeth McGovern; Torch Song starring Michael Urie and a luminous Mercedes Ruhl; and the unseen but well-reviewed revival of Once on This Island by Flarety and Ahrens.

Frank tells us about his experiences at Film Festivals (he goes to a lot of them), like Toronto and Telluride. And he relates a brush-with-greatness story about running into Meryl Streep while standing in line to see one of her latest pictures. The Golden Globe nominations will be out just after this episode publishes. Gary and Frank talk about their choices for front-runners.

Christmas in San Diego will bring Frank close to one of his life-long dreams – SUMMER: The Donna Summer Musical, now playing at the La Jolla Playhouse. LaChanze stars as Diva Donna in this pre-Broadway engagement. Frank’s excitement for this show is audibly palpable!

Nabors, a native Alabaman, found an entertainment niche playing clubs like The Horn in Santa Monica in the 1960s, with an act that mixed folksy Southern charm with a rich and unexpected baritone singing voice. Andy Griffith decided he would be perfect for a new character on his already-hit show, and Gomer Pyle, cousin of Goober, was born. Gomer proved immensely popular with the viewing public and appeared on and off for four seasons before being given his own show in a spin off. He later hosted a variety show on CBS, showcasing his splendid voice with songs like The Impossible Dream from Man of La Mancha. Mr. Nabors lived in Hawaii for nearly thirty years and owned a macadamia nut ranch in Hana on Maui. Jim Nabors was 87. Read full obituary here.

]]>Mentor, Educator and Theatre aficionado Frank Tourangeau (Episode 54) returns and joins Gary as this week's co-host in the Booth. Gary and Betsy have just returned from a glorious Thanksgiving week in New York,
In addition, we look in on the Chicago theater scene with such shows as Escape to Margaritaville (the Jimmy Buffett musical); Tracy Letts' new play at the Steppenwolf Theatre, The Minutes; a local Victory Gardens production of Fun Home; Significant Other at the Theatre Wit; and A Red Orchid Theatre's production of Wallace Shawn's Evening at the Talk House.

But back to Broadway - we first tell about seeing Donna Murphy, Bette Midler's alternate, in the splendid and beautiful Hello,Dolly! Frank and Gary both agree that this is one of the finest productions of a classic musical they have ever seen, regardless of who's playing the lead. The Band's Visit, recently opened at the Barrymore Theatre, elicits slightly conflicting opinions from Gary and Frank - Gary was a bit underwhelmed from his front row seat, while Frank from the mezzanine found the show charming and very moving. They agree that it may have been a difference of perspective.

Other New York shows we discuss are Time and The Conways with Elizabeth McGovern; Torch Song starring Michael Urie and a luminous Mercedes Ruhl; and the unseen but well-reviewed revival of Once on This Island by Flarety and Ahrens.

Frank tells us about his experiences at Film Festivals (he goes to a lot of them), like Toronto and Telluride. And he relates a brush-with-greatness story about running into Meryl Streep while standing in line to see one of her latest pictures. The Golden Globe nominations will be out just after this episode publishes. Gary and Frank talk about their choices for front-runners.

Christmas in San Diego will bring Frank close to one of his life-long dreams - SUMMER: The Donna Summer Musical, now playing at the La Jolla Playhouse. LaChanze stars as Diva Donna in this pre-Broadway engagement. Frank's excitement for this show is audibly palpable!

Nabors, a native Alabaman, found an entertainment niche playing clubs like The Horn in Santa Monica in the 1960s, with an act that mixed folksy Southern charm with a rich and unexpected baritone singing voice. Andy Griffith decided he would be perfect for a new character on his already-hit show, and Gomer Pyle, cousin of Goober, was born. Gomer proved immensely popular with the viewing public and appeared on and off for four seasons before being given his own show in a spin off. He later hosted a variety show on CBS, showcasing his splendid voice with songs like The Impossible Dream from Man of La Mancha. Mr. Nabors lived in Hawaii for nearly thirty years and owned a macadamia nut ranch in Hana on Maui. Jim Nabors was 87. Read full obituary here.

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau59:14Getting the Shot – Photographer and Theatre Artist Stephan Mazurek – Episode 68https://booth-one.com/2017/11/getting-shot-photographer-theatre-artist-stephan-mazurek-episode-68/
Sun, 19 Nov 2017 23:09:08 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2684Gary's guest this week is photographer, explorer, and theatre artist Stephan Mazurek. Stephan is a storyteller - on screens, on stages, on buildings and on the web. He is a director of photography, still photographer, playwright, theatre director and projection designer. His clients include The Discovery Channel, National Geographic Channel, Food Network and ESPN, as well as spot work for Skittles, Nikon, Oscar Mayer, McDonalds and Goo Gone!
Stephan is an acclaimed documentary photographer. His favorite long form documentary project was the award-winning Louder Than a Bomb, which followed 10 Chicago area high school students for a year as they prepared for a poetry competition.
He also spent more than a year in Turkey, Somalia, Iraq and Bosnia shooting Love is a Verb, which tells the fascinating story of Fethullah Gulen, the exiled religious leader of the transnational social movement that began in Turkey in the 1960s, and bears his name. Gulen has been in the news recently because Mike Flynn was offered $15 million if he could bring him back to Turkey. Here is a photo of Stephan filming in Somalia with an armed body guard.
Documentary film-making has taken Stephan all over the world. He tells Booth One about a favorite place - Northern Ireland. He says there is something about "the pace, the color, the light" that make him feel comfortable there.
Though he has never taken a photography class, still photography remains Stephan's first love because "I know when I have it." He tells us how he gets inspired "just walking around."
As a theater artist, Stephan has worked on numerous productions, designing projections for plays and musicals, including Shining Lives at Northlight Theatre. He also designed projections for The Remembered City, part of the Tim Evans' Traffic series at Steppenwolf, which featured Tony Fitzpatrick and Steve Earle and was directed by our producer, Betsy Ingram. Stephan is currently working on a screenplay. We can't wait to hear what it's about and see the film!
Gary and Stephan discuss the infinite variety of theatre experiences available these days in Chicago, and what memorable stage encounters stay with them through the years. Stephan's was in Spain, Gary's in Hamburg, Germany. Stephan admits to being highly selective when choosing to take on a theatrcal project, knowing that he will want to fully dive into the work. He's looking to be challenged, inspired and wholly committed to the process.
Having gone to some of the more troubled spots in the world to "get the shot", Stephan relates a harrowing story about his interpreters in southern Turkey near the Syrian border while filming Love is a Verb. After getting him lost and then lying about their exact location, Stephan has decided that in future, he will demand translators instead - someone who will repeat his conversations word for word and not "interpret" what he is saying or asking. A good lesson learned.
Kiss of Death:
Frances Hansen, Who Wrote Poetry Across and Down
The New York Times published 82 of Mrs. Hansen's crossword puzzles, starting in the 1960s. The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times and book publishers like Dell, Random House and Simon & Schuster also printed puzzles she constructed. A diabolical cruciverbalist, Hansen often used her own original poems and limericks as answers in the 21x21 grid that makes up the Sunday NYT magazine crossword puzzle. Many times clues were given backwards, and answers were to be entered back to front. She said that puzzles came to her in her sleep, left there by the "idea Fairy." Mrs. Hansen was 85.Gary’s guest this week is photographer, explorer, and theatre artist Stephan Mazurek. Stephan is a storyteller – on screens, on stages, on buildings and on the web. He is a director of photography, still photographer, playwright, theatre director and projection designer. His clients include The Discovery Channel, National Geographic Channel, Food Network and ESPN, as well as spot work for Skittles, Nikon, Oscar Mayer, McDonalds and Goo Gone!

Stephan is an acclaimed documentary photographer. His favorite long form documentary project was the award-winning Louder Than a Bomb, which followed 10 Chicago area high school students for a year as they prepared for a poetry competition.

He also spent more than a year in Turkey, Somalia, Iraq and Bosnia shooting Love is a Verb, which tells the fascinating story of Fethullah Gulen, the exiled religious leader of the transnational social movement that began in Turkey in the 1960s, and bears his name. Gulen has been in the news recently because Mike Flynn was offered $15 million if he could bring him back to Turkey. Here is a photo of Stephan filming in Somalia with an armed body guard.

Documentary film-making has taken Stephan all over the world. He tells Booth One about a favorite place – Northern Ireland. He says there is something about “the pace, the color, the light” that make him feel comfortable there.

Though he has never taken a photography class, still photography remains Stephan’s first love because “I know when I have it.” He tells us how he gets inspired “just walking around.”

As a theater artist, Stephan has worked on numerous productions, designing projections for plays and musicals, including Shining Lives at Northlight Theatre. He also designed projections for The Remembered City, part of the Tim Evans’ Traffic series at Steppenwolf, which featured Tony Fitzpatrick and Steve Earle and was directed by our producer, Betsy Ingram. Stephan is currently working on a screenplay. We can’t wait to hear what it’s about and see the film!

Gary and Stephan discuss the infinite variety of theatre experiences available these days in Chicago, and what memorable stage encounters stay with them through the years. Stephan’s was in Spain, Gary’s in Hamburg, Germany. Stephan admits to being highly selective when choosing to take on a theatrcal project, knowing that he will want to fully dive into the work. He’s looking to be challenged, inspired and wholly committed to the process.

Having gone to some of the more troubled spots in the world to “get the shot”, Stephan relates a harrowing story about his interpreters in southern Turkey near the Syrian border while filming Love is a Verb. After getting him lost and then lying about their exact location, Stephan has decided that in future, he will demand translators instead – someone who will repeat his conversations word for word and not “interpret” what he is saying or asking. A good lesson learned.

The New York Times published 82 of Mrs. Hansen’s crossword puzzles, starting in the 1960s. The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times and book publishers like Dell, Random House and Simon & Schuster also printed puzzles she constructed. A diabolical cruciverbalist, Hansen often used her own original poems and limericks as answers in the 21×21 grid that makes up the Sunday NYT magazine crossword puzzle. Many times clues were given backwards, and answers were to be entered back to front. She said that puzzles came to her in her sleep, left there by the “idea Fairy.” Mrs. Hansen was 85.

]]>Gary's guest this week is photographer, explorer, and theatre artist Stephan Mazurek. Stephan is a storyteller - on screens, on stages, on buildings and on the web. He is a director of photography, still photographer, playwright,Gary's guest this week is photographer, explorer, and theatre artist Stephan Mazurek. Stephan is a storyteller - on screens, on stages, on buildings and on the web. He is a director of photography, still photographer, playwright, theatre director and projection designer. His clients include The Discovery Channel, National Geographic Channel, Food Network and ESPN, as well as spot work for Skittles, Nikon, Oscar Mayer, McDonalds and Goo Gone!

Stephan is an acclaimed documentary photographer. His favorite long form documentary project was the award-winning Louder Than a Bomb, which followed 10 Chicago area high school students for a year as they prepared for a poetry competition.

He also spent more than a year in Turkey, Somalia, Iraq and Bosnia shooting Love is a Verb, which tells the fascinating story of Fethullah Gulen, the exiled religious leader of the transnational social movement that began in Turkey in the 1960s, and bears his name. Gulen has been in the news recently because Mike Flynn was offered $15 million if he could bring him back to Turkey. Here is a photo of Stephan filming in Somalia with an armed body guard.

Documentary film-making has taken Stephan all over the world. He tells Booth One about a favorite place - Northern Ireland. He says there is something about "the pace, the color, the light" that make him feel comfortable there.

Though he has never taken a photography class, still photography remains Stephan's first love because "I know when I have it." He tells us how he gets inspired "just walking around."

As a theater artist, Stephan has worked on numerous productions, designing projections for plays and musicals, including Shining Lives at Northlight Theatre. He also designed projections for The Remembered City, part of the Tim Evans' Traffic series at Steppenwolf, which featured Tony Fitzpatrick and Steve Earle and was directed by our producer, Betsy Ingram. Stephan is currently working on a screenplay. We can't wait to hear what it's about and see the film!

Gary and Stephan discuss the infinite variety of theatre experiences available these days in Chicago, and what memorable stage encounters stay with them through the years. Stephan's was in Spain, Gary's in Hamburg, Germany. Stephan admits to being highly selective when choosing to take on a theatrcal project, knowing that he will want to fully dive into the work. He's looking to be challenged, inspired and wholly committed to the process.

Having gone to some of the more troubled spots in the world to "get the shot", Stephan relates a harrowing story about his interpreters in southern Turkey near the Syrian border while filming Love is a Verb. After getting him lost and then lying about their exact location, Stephan has decided that in future, he will demand translators instead - someone who will repeat his conversations word for word and not "interpret" what he is saying or asking. A good lesson learned.

Robert tells us about recent favorite acting projects, including appearing in a new play called Lottery Day by Ike Holter for the Goodman Theatre’s New Stages project.

Robert is also a successful musician, whose “unattainable goal” when he was young was to become a backup singer. When Poi Dog Pondering’s band leader Frank Orall met Robert when both were performing in Brigid Murphy’s Milly’s Orchid Show, Frank asked him to come sing a couple of lines for a Poi Dog recording.

Soon after, he was asked to join the group for a show outside of the Field Museum in Chicago. There were 10,000 people in attendance! Later he went on tour with the band for several years. Robert is still a proud member of the Poi Dog Pondering collective. They’ll be performing five shows this December at City Winery in Chicago. Their live shows are joyous and not to be missed! On this episode, you’ll hear a couple of short clips from one of Poi Dog Pondering’s great albums, Pomegranate.

Robert is the founder and leader of the musical group RC7, which started as a Soul and R & B cover band. Later, Robert started writing songs and they’ve produced a CD called To Your Soul. Both Poi Dog Pondering and RC7 have performed marvelous outdoor free shows at Petrillo Music Shell and at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park, one with the Grant Park Music Festival’s sublime orchestra.

The great Don Cornelius, creator of Soul Train, was Robert’s uncle. Robert and a friend won one of the weekly dance contests with a cash prize, but he had to give it back because it was his uncle’s show. Still he earned a place as a regular (unpaid) dancer for 2 1/2 years. The legend King of Soul Sam Cooke was married to Robert’s dad’s step sister. So being around huge talent and fame was par for the course when he was growing up.

Director of Arts Education for Victory Gardens Theater, Robert and his staff go into the Chicago Public Schools to bring theatre training and fun to 600 kids a year! Gary and Robert talk about Victory Garden’s magnificent production of Tony Award winning musical, Fun Home, running through November 19. Watch a great short video that introduces you to some of the staff and advisors to VG here.

Kiss Of Death:

Roy Dotrice, who started acting when he was a POW in World War II, has an amazing story. After the war, he performed in hundreds of productions. He did audio book narration and was perhaps best known for his one-man shows, holding the Guinness Record for most non-consecutive performances (1,782) for Brief Lives, about John Aubrey until Hal Holbrook eventually beat that number with his portrayal of Mark Twain. Dotrice became part of the precursor to the Royal Shakespeare Company, and introduced baseball to his fellow actors. You won’t BELIEVE the team he fielded. Mr. Dotrice was 94.

]]>Our guest in the Booth this week is the multi-talented Robert Cornelius. Singer, Actor, Songwriter, Band Leader, Educator, Activist, and Writer - he excels at them all! And...we learn that he can design and construct costumes as well.
Our guest in the Booth this week is the multi-talented Robert Cornelius. Singer, Actor, Songwriter, Band Leader, Educator, Activist, and Writer - he excels at them all! And...we learn that he can design and construct costumes as well. A long-time friend of the show, we were finally able to work it out with his busy schedule to have him on.

Robert grew up on the South Side and studied theatre and psychology at Western Illinois University. When he came back to Chicago, he got cast in Rosencrantz & Gildernstern Are Dead at Stage Left. He quickly became a company member. Other highlights of his career include acting and designing costumes for A Member of the Wedding (also at Stage Left), and playing the lead in Blues for an Alabama Sky by Pearl Cleage at Madison Rep.

Robert tells us about recent favorite acting projects, including appearing in a new play called Lottery Day by Ike Holter for the Goodman Theatre's New Stages project.

Robert is also a successful musician, whose "unattainable goal" when he was young was to become a backup singer. When Poi Dog Pondering's band leader Frank Orall met Robert when both were performing in Brigid Murphy's Milly's Orchid Show, Frank asked him to come sing a couple of lines for a Poi Dog recording.

Soon after, he was asked to join the group for a show outside of the Field Museum in Chicago. There were 10,000 people in attendance! Later he went on tour with the band for several years. Robert is still a proud member of the Poi Dog Pondering collective. They'll be performing five shows this December at City Winery in Chicago. Their live shows are joyous and not to be missed! On this episode, you'll hear a couple of short clips from one of Poi Dog Pondering's great albums, Pomegranate.

Robert is the founder and leader of the musical group RC7, which started as a Soul and R & B cover band. Later, Robert started writing songs and they've produced a CD called To Your Soul. Both Poi Dog Pondering and RC7 have performed marvelous outdoor free shows at Petrillo Music Shell and at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park, one with the Grant Park Music Festival's sublime orchestra.

The great Don Cornelius, creator of Soul Train, was Robert's uncle. Robert and a friend won one of the weekly dance contests with a cash prize, but he had to give it back because it was his uncle's show. Still he earned a place as a regular (unpaid) dancer for 2 1/2 years. The legend King of Soul Sam Cooke was married to Robert's dad's step sister. So being around huge talent and fame was par for the course when he was growing up.

He regales Gary with tales of his father John, an architect who became a POW in WWII. John designed a theatre in his prison camp and became a forger who was part of The Great Escape.

Colin describes some of the many memorable characters who have walked into the Red Lion, including Christopher Hitchens, with whom he had an extended conversation about WWI poetry. Calling the exchange “a labyrinth of obscurata,” it’s an astonishing glimpse into just one small corner of Colin’s ability to speak eloquently about so many subjects, including history, poetry, philosophy and war.

A fine actor earlier in his career, Colin has a soft spot for those who walk the boards. Colin and his father have generously given free rehearsal space to nascent theater companies over the years. When Barbara Gaines brought them her vision for a major Shakespeare company in Chicago, they believed in her and provided a venue for her first project back in the early 80’s. That memorable production of Henry V started Shakespeare Repertory, now known world-wide as Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Colin talks movingly about how he could see that Barbara’s “soul was ignited” by Shakespeare’s work and how proud he is that his dad and he helped her get CST off the ground.

Gary gives a glowing recommendation to go see the Goodman Theatre’s production of A View From the Bridge, the stunning Ivo van Hove conception that played on Broadway a couple of seasons ago. Done in the style of a Greek tragedy, this interpretation gives deeper meaning and understanding to one of Arthur Miller‘s most famous plays. An absolute must see – running only until October 22!

Looking for a “higher” education opportunity? Look no further than Northern Michigan University in Marquette, MI. This small Midwest college is offering the first degree of its kind at a four-year undergraduate college in “medicinal plant chemistry”, effectively a major in marijuana, that will prepare students for careers in the burgeoning marijuana industry. Now’s your chance to make that career change you’ve dreamed about! Read more here.

Like many properties and buildings that date to the 19th century, The Red Lion has its stories of haunting, ghosts and inexplicable events. Colin chillingly recounts a few encounters over the years with specters, voices and objects moving by themselves.

Gary talks about what a magical place the Red Lion is and how he learns something every visit. It’s a place that awakens the imagination.

Want Harry Potter and the Cursed Child tickets on Broadway next year? You’ll have to register as a “verified fan” with Ticketmaster and give up your personal information for their marketing use – forever! While consumers surely benefit from these anti-bot techniques, producers benefit even more by creating Amazon-like databases. The Chicago Tribune lays the story out pretty clearly.

Kiss of Death:

Arthur Janov, Psychiatrist who caught the world’s attention with “Primal Scream”
“The Primal Scream” in 1970 became a cultural phenomenon, embraced by celebrities as a treatment that could cure a multitude of ills and neuroses. Janov’s Primal Center in Los Angeles still practices the technique, though it has been debunked and discredited as a treatment option for mental health. It managed to outlive the 70’s by a considerable margin. Arthur Janov was 93. Read Margalit Fox’s obit.

]]>Colin Cordwell, proprietor of the The Red Lion English pub, brings his uncanny insights and encyclopedic knowledge to Booth One this week. Colin has seen it all in his 40 years watching "a conveyor belt of humanity go past me" behind one of Chicago's g...Colin Cordwell, proprietor of the The Red Lion English pub, brings his uncanny insights and encyclopedic knowledge to Booth One this week. Colin has seen it all in his 40 years watching "a conveyor belt of humanity go past me" behind one of Chicago's great bars.

He regales Gary with tales of his father John, an architect who became a POW in WWII. John designed a theatre in his prison camp and became a forger who was part of The Great Escape.

Colin describes some of the many memorable characters who have walked into the Red Lion, including Christopher Hitchens, with whom he had an extended conversation about WWI poetry. Calling the exchange "a labyrinth of obscurata," it's an astonishing glimpse into just one small corner of Colin's ability to speak eloquently about so many subjects, including history, poetry, philosophy and war.

A fine actor earlier in his career, Colin has a soft spot for those who walk the boards. Colin and his father have generously given free rehearsal space to nascent theater companies over the years. When Barbara Gaines brought them her vision for a major Shakespeare company in Chicago, they believed in her and provided a venue for her first project back in the early 80's. That memorable production of Henry V started Shakespeare Repertory, now known world-wide as Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Colin talks movingly about how he could see that Barbara's "soul was ignited" by Shakespeare's work and how proud he is that his dad and he helped her get CST off the ground.

Gary gives a glowing recommendation to go see the Goodman Theatre's production of A View From the Bridge, the stunning Ivo van Hove conception that played on Broadway a couple of seasons ago. Done in the style of a Greek tragedy, this interpretation gives deeper meaning and understanding to one of Arthur Miller's most famous plays. An absolute must see - running only until October 22!

Looking for a "higher" education opportunity? Look no further than Northern Michigan University in Marquette, MI. This small Midwest college is offering the first degree of its kind at a four-year undergraduate college in "medicinal plant chemistry", effectively a major in marijuana, that will prepare students for careers in the burgeoning marijuana industry. Now's your chance to make that career change you've dreamed about! Read more here.

Like many properties and buildings that date to the 19th century, The Red Lion has its stories of haunting, ghosts and inexplicable events. Colin chillingly recounts a few encounters over the years with specters, voices and objects moving by themselves.

Gary talks about what a magical place the Red Lion is and how he learns something every visit. It's a place that awakens the imagination.

Want Harry Potter and the Cursed Child tickets on Broadway next year? You'll have to register as a "verified fan" with Ticketmaster and give up your personal information for their marketing use - forever! While consumers surely benefit from these anti-bot techniques,]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau50:53Invading Nirvana – Episode 65https://booth-one.com/2017/10/invading-nirvana-episode-65/
Mon, 02 Oct 2017 02:19:59 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2550We welcome actor, director, audiobook narrator, and author Kevin Theis back to Booth One to talk about his new book, Invading Nirvana, A Chicagoan in the City of Angels. This hilarious and informative book serves as a blueprint for any actor considering moving to L.A. to try to get work in show business. It's available at bookstores or on Amazon. Kevin has also narrated the audiobook. Longtime Chicago critic and theatre professor Albert Williams has this to say about it: "A smart, witty, but also incisive and candid chronicle of Theis's experiences and observations as a Chicago actor who decided to head west to crash the TV, film, and surprisingly lucrative audiobooks markets."
In this book, Kevin explores every aspect of the entertainment industry, including stand-up comedy. Treating the project like a journalism assignment about what it's like to live there, he also talks about other L.A. weirdness, such as the pervasiveness of Scientologists and cannabis. Check out this site to see the big blue Scientology Center and one of the videos Kevin saw in person.
Kevin has a book signing on October 20 at City Lit Books and on October 24 at the Den Theatre.
Gary and Kevin have just seen The Rembrandt at Steppenwolf, starring John Mahoney and Francis Guinan. They, along with their 3 supporting actors, are sensational. As Kevin says, go to this show to see "two pros get up on stage with the right material and the right director and just knock it out of the park!"
In his "Good Times & Bum Times" segment, Gary recounts two amazing tales of woe and good fortune. The bum times is particularly astonishing.
Gary has recently done an audio book narration workshop with Kevin, which was a lot of fun. Kevin will come to your home to do the workshop! Go to this site if you'd like to sign up.
Our producer gave Gary a shark picture book as a "present." It includes graphic photos and "danger ratings", along with proof that at least one 5 star danger-rated shark can live in fresh water. Good to have your phobias validated.
Kevin announces a new project he is doing at Oak Park Festival Theatre. A world premiere play called "A Dickens Carol" by Ned Crowley. The premise is that A Christmas Carol is based on actual events from Dickens' life. Opens November 26. Speaking of A Christmas Carol, this will be the 40th anniversary of Chicago's Goodman Theatre production. Kevin enjoyed being part of that cast for seven years.
Kiss of Death:
Celebrate the life of magician Eugene Burger. What a story. A master of close-up illusions and mentor to many at the The Magic Castle. Gary has been lucky enough to get invited in the past and recalls it as one of the great experiences of his life.
We welcome actor, director, audiobook narrator, and author Kevin Theis back to Booth One to talk about his new book, Invading Nirvana, A Chicagoan in the City of Angels. This hilarious and informative book serves as a blueprint for any actor considering moving to L.A. to try to get work in show business. It’s available at bookstores or on Amazon. Kevin has also narrated the audiobook. Longtime Chicago critic and theatre professor Albert Williams has this to say about it: “A smart, witty, but also incisive and candid chronicle of Theis’s experiences and observations as a Chicago actor who decided to head west to crash the TV, film, and surprisingly lucrative audiobooks markets.”

In this book, Kevin explores every aspect of the entertainment industry, including stand-up comedy. Treating the project like a journalism assignment about what it’s like to live there, he also talks about other L.A. weirdness, such as the pervasiveness of Scientologists and cannabis. Check out this site to see the big blue Scientology Center and one of the videos Kevin saw in person.

Gary and Kevin have just seen The Rembrandt at Steppenwolf, starring John Mahoney and Francis Guinan. They, along with their 3 supporting actors, are sensational. As Kevin says, go to this show to see “two pros get up on stage with the right material and the right director and just knock it out of the park!”

In his “Good Times & Bum Times” segment, Gary recounts two amazing tales of woe and good fortune. The bum times is particularly astonishing.

Gary has recently done an audio book narration workshop with Kevin, which was a lot of fun. Kevin will come to your home to do the workshop! Go to this site if you’d like to sign up.

Our producer gave Gary a shark picture book as a “present.” It includes graphic photos and “danger ratings”, along with proof that at least one 5 star danger-rated shark can live in fresh water. Good to have your phobias validated.

Kevin announces a new project he is doing at Oak Park Festival Theatre. A world premiere play called “A Dickens Carol” by Ned Crowley. The premise is that A Christmas Carol is based on actual events from Dickens’ life. Opens November 26. Speaking of A Christmas Carol, this will be the 40th anniversary of Chicago’s Goodman Theatre production. Kevin enjoyed being part of that cast for seven years.

Kiss of Death:

Celebrate the life of magician Eugene Burger. What a story. A master of close-up illusions and mentor to many at the The Magic Castle. Gary has been lucky enough to get invited in the past and recalls it as one of the great experiences of his life.

]]>We welcome actor, director, audiobook narrator, and author Kevin Theis back to Booth One to talk about his new book, Invading Nirvana, A Chicagoan in the City of Angels. This hilarious and informative book serves as a blueprint for any actor considerin...Amazon. Kevin has also narrated the audiobook. Longtime Chicago critic and theatre professor Albert Williams has this to say about it: "A smart, witty, but also incisive and candid chronicle of Theis's experiences and observations as a Chicago actor who decided to head west to crash the TV, film, and surprisingly lucrative audiobooks markets."

In this book, Kevin explores every aspect of the entertainment industry, including stand-up comedy. Treating the project like a journalism assignment about what it's like to live there, he also talks about other L.A. weirdness, such as the pervasiveness of Scientologists and cannabis. Check out this site to see the big blue Scientology Center and one of the videos Kevin saw in person.

Gary and Kevin have just seen The Rembrandt at Steppenwolf, starring John Mahoney and Francis Guinan. They, along with their 3 supporting actors, are sensational. As Kevin says, go to this show to see "two pros get up on stage with the right material and the right director and just knock it out of the park!"

In his "Good Times & Bum Times" segment, Gary recounts two amazing tales of woe and good fortune. The bum times is particularly astonishing.

Gary has recently done an audio book narration workshop with Kevin, which was a lot of fun. Kevin will come to your home to do the workshop! Go to this site if you'd like to sign up.

Our producer gave Gary a shark picture book as a "present." It includes graphic photos and "danger ratings", along with proof that at least one 5 star danger-rated shark can live in fresh water. Good to have your phobias validated.

Kevin announces a new project he is doing at Oak Park Festival Theatre. A world premiere play called "A Dickens Carol" by Ned Crowley. The premise is that A Christmas Carol is based on actual events from Dickens' life. Opens November 26. Speaking of A Christmas Carol, this will be the 40th anniversary of Chicago's Goodman Theatre production. Kevin enjoyed being part of that cast for seven years.

Kiss of Death:

Celebrate the life of magician Eugene Burger. What a story. A master of close-up illusions and mentor to many at the The Magic Castle. Gary has been lucky enough to get invited in the past and recalls it as one of the great experiences of his life.

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau1:02:48Trevor the Musical – Episode 64https://booth-one.com/2017/09/trevor-musical-episode-64/
Mon, 18 Sep 2017 21:17:30 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2448It was thrilling to welcome to the Booth two of the stars and the Assistant Director of Writers Theatre's world premiere production of Trevor the Musical.
Eli Tokash, who plays Trevor, is magnificent on stage and off. He just lights up the room. He has met his match with co-star, Tori Whaples, who is terrific as Cathy in the show. And what can we say about Tyrone Phillips, who is doing amazing and exciting work in every aspect of his career.
Trevor began as a monologue written and performed by James Lecesne for his Drama Desk award-winning one man show Word of Mouth, directed by Eve Ensler and produced by Mike Nichols and Elaine May. He then adapted it into a screenplay for a short film directed by Peggy Rajski that won an an Oscar! Watch the film on YouTube here.
This story, set in 1981, is about Trevor, an exuberant middle school kid who is wild for Diana Ross. He has a great "cool" friend, Pinky Faraday (Declan Desmond), who likes him a lot. When one of Pinky's friends insinuates Trevor may be gay, he tries to prove he's not by making out with Cathy, who has a huge crush on him.
However, when Trevor's adoration for Pinky (documented in a notebook) is revealed to classmates by his best friend, Trevor gets bullied and shamed at school. Trevor's emerging sexuality is confusing for him and he is getting no support. This kid who is so full of light winds up attempting suicide.
When James and the film's producers realized that a resource for kids dealing with the issues Trevor raises didn't exist, they started the Trevor Project, a life saving non-profit organization. The goals of the project are "to provide crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13–24, as well as to offer guidance and resources to parents and educators in order to foster safe, accepting and inclusive environments for all youth, at home and at school." Since it's inception in 1998, The Trevor Project has helped hundreds of thousands of kids.
This world premiere musical is produced by Writers Theatre by special arrangement with U Rock Theatricals, a group of young producers making new shows aimed for Broadway. Director Marc Bruni has done a wonderful job of leading this tremendous ensemble and creating a vibrant and important piece that is full of so much heart. We are so lucky to have seen it here first and to have had a chance to talk with these three superstars. They give us an inside look at the process of creating a new musical. The immensely talented writing team of Julianne Wick Davis and Dan Collins were in the room for rehearsals. New pages every day, all different colors. Eli says their notebooks became a rainbow, "Pride scripts!" The Major Production Sponsor for this show is Booth One's friend and Creative Consultant, Mary Pat Studdert. Here's to Mary Pat for doing so much to make it happen.
Eli, Tori and Tyrone tell us about director Marc Bruni's exciting and collaborative style. Tyrone talks about how professional this cast of young performers has been, calling them "the best in the business!"He says there was so much play in the room and it was all about them finding their voices. He goes on to say that this piece is about "anyone who has felt awkward, embarrassed or excluded. It's about being different, an outsider." We can all relate to that.
Finally, learn some sort of random and fun things about our guests by listening to them answer a few Chat Pack questions.It was thrilling to welcome to the Booth two of the stars and the Assistant Director of Writers Theatre’s world premiere production of Trevor the Musical.

Eli Tokash, who plays Trevor, is magnificent on stage and off. He just lights up the room. He has met his match with co-star, Tori Whaples, who is terrific as Cathy in the show. And what can we say about Tyrone Phillips, who is doing amazing and exciting work in every aspect of his career.

Trevor began as a monologue written and performed by James Lecesne for his Drama Desk award-winning one man show Word of Mouth, directed by Eve Ensler and produced by Mike Nichols and Elaine May. He then adapted it into a screenplay for a short film directed by Peggy Rajski that won an an Oscar! Watch the film on YouTube here.

This story, set in 1981, is about Trevor, an exuberant middle school kid who is wild for Diana Ross. He has a great “cool” friend, Pinky Faraday (Declan Desmond), who likes him a lot. When one of Pinky’s friends insinuates Trevor may be gay, he tries to prove he’s not by making out with Cathy, who has a huge crush on him.

However, when Trevor’s adoration for Pinky (documented in a notebook) is revealed to classmates by his best friend, Trevor gets bullied and shamed at school. Trevor’s emerging sexuality is confusing for him and he is getting no support. This kid who is so full of light winds up attempting suicide.

When James and the film’s producers realized that a resource for kids dealing with the issues Trevor raises didn’t exist, they started the Trevor Project, a life saving non-profit organization. The goals of the project are “to provide crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13–24, as well as to offer guidance and resources to parents and educators in order to foster safe, accepting and inclusive environments for all youth, at home and at school.” Since it’s inception in 1998, The Trevor Project has helped hundreds of thousands of kids.

This world premiere musical is produced by Writers Theatre by special arrangement with U Rock Theatricals, a group of young producers making new shows aimed for Broadway. Director Marc Bruni has done a wonderful job of leading this tremendous ensemble and creating a vibrant and important piece that is full of so much heart. We are so lucky to have seen it here first and to have had a chance to talk with these three superstars. They give us an inside look at the process of creating a new musical. The immensely talented writing team of Julianne Wick Davis and Dan Collins were in the room for rehearsals. New pages every day, all different colors. Eli says their notebooks became a rainbow, “Pride scripts!” The Major Production Sponsor for this show is Booth One’s friend and Creative Consultant, Mary Pat Studdert. Here’s to Mary Pat for doing so much to make it happen.

Eli, Tori and Tyrone tell us about director Marc Bruni’s exciting and collaborative style. Tyrone talks about how professional this cast of young performers has been, calling them “the best in the business!”He says there was so much play in the room and it was all about them finding their voices. He goes on to say that this piece is about “anyone who has felt awkward, embarrassed or excluded. It’s about being different, an outsider.” We can all relate to that.

Finally, learn some sort of random and fun things about our guests by listening to them answer a few Chat Pack questions.

]]>It was thrilling to welcome to the Booth two of the stars and the Assistant Director of Writers Theatre's world premiere production of Trevor the Musical. - Eli Tokash, who plays Trevor, is magnificent on stage and off. He just lights up the room.Writers Theatre's world premiere production of Trevor the Musical.

Eli Tokash, who plays Trevor, is magnificent on stage and off. He just lights up the room. He has met his match with co-star, Tori Whaples, who is terrific as Cathy in the show. And what can we say about Tyrone Phillips, who is doing amazing and exciting work in every aspect of his career.

Trevor began as a monologue written and performed by James Lecesne for his Drama Desk award-winning one man show Word of Mouth, directed by Eve Ensler and produced by Mike Nichols and Elaine May. He then adapted it into a screenplay for a short film directed by Peggy Rajski that won an an Oscar! Watch the film on YouTube here.

This story, set in 1981, is about Trevor, an exuberant middle school kid who is wild for Diana Ross. He has a great "cool" friend, Pinky Faraday (Declan Desmond), who likes him a lot. When one of Pinky's friends insinuates Trevor may be gay, he tries to prove he's not by making out with Cathy, who has a huge crush on him.

However, when Trevor's adoration for Pinky (documented in a notebook) is revealed to classmates by his best friend, Trevor gets bullied and shamed at school. Trevor's emerging sexuality is confusing for him and he is getting no support. This kid who is so full of light winds up attempting suicide.

When James and the film's producers realized that a resource for kids dealing with the issues Trevor raises didn't exist, they started the Trevor Project, a life saving non-profit organization. The goals of the project are "to provide crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13–24, as well as to offer guidance and resources to parents and educators in order to foster safe, accepting and inclusive environments for all youth, at home and at school." Since it's inception in 1998, The Trevor Project has helped hundreds of thousands of kids.

This world premiere musical is produced by Writers Theatre by special arrangement with U Rock Theatricals, a group of young producers making new shows aimed for Broadway. Director Marc Bruni has done a wonderful job of leading this tremendous ensemble and creating a vibrant and important piece that is full of so much heart. We are so lucky to have seen it here first and to have had a chance to talk with these three superstars. They give us an inside look at the process of creating a new musical. The immensely talented writing team of Julianne Wick ...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau53:43Renaissance Woman – Vocal Coach & Director Mary Jo DuPrey – Episode 63https://booth-one.com/2017/08/renaissance-woman-vocal-coach-director-mary-jo-duprey-episode-63/
Sun, 20 Aug 2017 23:41:26 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2407Booth One welcomes Mary Jo DuPrey, who recently visited Chicago from Los Angeles for some meetings about possible directing projects.
Mary Jo trained as an actress at Vassar. She then worked with her sister Katie Agresta, a legendary vocal coach, managing her "rock & roll vocal studio" on the upper west side, where she also learned how to teach singing with Katie's amazingly effective approach and exercises. Check out this list of notable students!
Mary Jo then moved to L.A. where she had a successful acting career. She also taught acting and singing in UCLA's musical theatre program, and tells us about how she came to be such a sought-after vocal coach for spoken and singing voices.
She tells great stories about working with her clients, including how she got connected with Daveed Diggs through their mutual friend and collaborator, composer and sound designer Jonathan Snipes. Mary Jo worked closely with Daveed while Hamilton was being developed. Read his description of working with her here. Don't miss her spellbinding story about being invited by Alex Lacamoire to Hamilton's first music stand read! She made two bold predictions that day that came true.
Mary Jo gives Gary a short voice lesson and offers to work with him via Skype! She is a master at her craft and approaches the voice in a totally holistic manner. Interested in scheduling some lessons? Contact her here. Mary Jo is the only certified West Coast teacher of the Katie Agresta Vocal Technique. She cites Patsy Rodenberg, Head of Voice for the Royal National Theatre as another major influence.
Mary Jo recently got an MFA in Directing at UCLA and is loving directing there and at professional theaters in L.A., such as the beautiful outdoor repertory theater in Topanga Canyon, the Theatricum Botanicum. She directed our friend and recurring guest co-host Paul Stroili in August: Osage County and he thinks the world of her. We are looking forward to her first Chicago-based project and will let you know when that happens.
Other topics of interest in this week's episode:
Elephant Rescue at Sea off the coast of Sri Lanka
36 Questions - The Musical Podcast
The Fair Maid of the West in Oak Park directed and adapated by Kevin Theis
Kiss of Death:
Barbara Cook - Legendary actress, cabaret and concert star receives a final musical tribute on her deathbed from some of the great entertainers she worked with during a 7-decade career. Read about Ms. Cook's final days.
Booth One welcomes Mary Jo DuPrey, who recently visited Chicago from Los Angeles for some meetings about possible directing projects.

Mary Jo trained as an actress at Vassar. She then worked with her sister Katie Agresta, a legendary vocal coach, managing her “rock & roll vocal studio” on the upper west side, where she also learned how to teach singing with Katie’s amazingly effective approach and exercises. Check out this list of notable students!

Mary Jo then moved to L.A. where she had a successful acting career. She also taught acting and singing in UCLA’s musical theatre program, and tells us about how she came to be such a sought-after vocal coach for spoken and singing voices.

She tells great stories about working with her clients, including how she got connected withDaveed Diggsthrough their mutual friend and collaborator, composer and sound designer Jonathan Snipes. Mary Jo worked closely with Daveed while Hamiltonwas being developed. Read his description of working with her here. Don’t miss her spellbinding story about being invited by Alex Lacamoire to Hamilton’s first music stand read! She made two bold predictions that day that came true.

Mary Jo gives Gary a short voice lesson and offers to work with him via Skype! She is a master at her craft and approaches the voice in a totally holistic manner. Interested in scheduling some lessons? Contact her here. Mary Jo is the only certified West Coast teacher of the Katie Agresta Vocal Technique. She cites Patsy Rodenberg, Head of Voice for the Royal National Theatre as another major influence.

Mary Jo recently got an MFA in Directing at UCLA and is loving directing there and at professional theaters in L.A., such as the beautiful outdoor repertory theater in Topanga Canyon, the Theatricum Botanicum. She directed our friend and recurring guest co-host Paul Stroili in August: Osage Countyand he thinks the world of her. We are looking forward to her first Chicago-based project and will let you know when that happens.

]]>Booth One welcomes Mary Jo DuPrey, who recently visited Chicago from Los Angeles for some meetings about possible directing projects. - Mary Jo trained as an actress at Vassar. She then worked with her sister Katie Agresta, a legendary vocal coach,Mary Jo DuPrey, who recently visited Chicago from Los Angeles for some meetings about possible directing projects.

Mary Jo trained as an actress at Vassar. She then worked with her sister Katie Agresta, a legendary vocal coach, managing her "rock & roll vocal studio" on the upper west side, where she also learned how to teach singing with Katie's amazingly effective approach and exercises. Check out this list of notable students!

Mary Jo then moved to L.A. where she had a successful acting career. She also taught acting and singing in UCLA's musical theatre program, and tells us about how she came to be such a sought-after vocal coach for spoken and singing voices.

She tells great stories about working with her clients, including how she got connected with Daveed Diggs through their mutual friend and collaborator, composer and sound designer Jonathan Snipes. Mary Jo worked closely with Daveed while Hamilton was being developed. Read his description of working with her here. Don't miss her spellbinding story about being invited by Alex Lacamoire to Hamilton's first music stand read! She made two bold predictions that day that came true.

Mary Jo gives Gary a short voice lesson and offers to work with him via Skype! She is a master at her craft and approaches the voice in a totally holistic manner. Interested in scheduling some lessons? Contact her here. Mary Jo is the only certified West Coast teacher of the Katie Agresta Vocal Technique. She cites Patsy Rodenberg, Head of Voice for the Royal National Theatre as another major influence.

Mary Jo recently got an MFA in Directing at UCLA and is loving directing there and at professional theaters in L.A., such as the beautiful outdoor repertory theater in Topanga Canyon, the Theatricum Botanicum. She directed our friend and recurring guest co-host Paul Stroili in August: Osage County and he thinks the world of her. We are looking forward to her first Chicago-based project and will let you know when that happens.

]]>Gary and popular co-host Paul Stroili, welcome special guest Mark Larson to the Booth. Mark is an educator, writer and oral historian, currently working on a book of interviews called Ensemble Chicago: The Making of a Theater Town, An Oral History.
Gary and popular co-host Paul Stroili, welcome special guest Mark Larson to the Booth. Mark is an educator, writer and oral historian, currently working on a book of interviews called Ensemble Chicago: The Making of a Theater Town, An Oral History. Mark has spoken to literally hundreds of theatre professionals, spanning the Chicago theatrical eras from the early 1950s to the present. From Joyce Piven and Alan Arkin to Michael Shannon and Evan Linder, Mark has recorded the stories of playwrights, actors, critics, designers, stage managers, teachers, comedians, artistic directors, producers, executives, and everyone in between. We know you will enjoy hearing our lively discussion about the birth and growth of the Chicago theater scene and the players who made it possible. Mark's book will be released in 2018.

A follow up to last episode's teaser on Michael Phelps swimming against a Great White Shark. Sadly, Phelps didn't win! - no limbs were sacrificed, but he lost by 2 seconds! More from the Hollywood Reporter here.

Dr. Shigeaki Hinohara, Japanese Longevity Expert, Dies at (or Lives to) 105. What a remarkable life. Not only was he a pioneer in Japanese medicine, but he wrote a best seller at 101!

Read the full NYT Obituary here.]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau59:24Kissing Frogs – Julia Maish – Episode 61https://booth-one.com/2017/07/kissing-frogs-julia-maish-episode-61/
Sun, 16 Jul 2017 21:00:07 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2335Chill out with a mid-summer edition of Booth One!
Gary's good friend and storyteller extraordinaire Julia Maish joins us in the Booth this week. Julia is Manager of Media Relations for WTTW and WFMT and has worked as an actress and jazz singer in Chicago.
We ask Julia about her early days working with The Second City. She was the sole administrative employee when she was there and tells an hilarious story about how on her last day, her boss swept all the cash from the safe into a paper bag to compensate her for the many vacation days she never took. A dramatic and thoughtful gesture.
Though she never had the desire to jump into the improvisation scene, Julia made a fine career out of doing scripted theater with the likes of Frank Farrell and Paul Sills. She relates her experiences with site-specific Shakespeare and the physical demands and dangers of acting. Also the 24-hour Shakespeare Marathon, the first of its kind in Chicago.
Julia talks about her meeting President Barack Obama on several occasions, including during his run for Senate. At a debate organized by Julia, Obama arrives late and is ascended upon by a gaggle of press. There is apparently a photo of Julia and the aspiring senator out there somewhere, but alas, a lengthy search proved fruitless. Listeners, please forward to us if you should come across it.
For many years, Julia was part of a vocal jazz trio know as Three A.M., and later changed to Moonglow. Her suggestion to the group that they change their name again to Cakes Men Like (from a cookbook title that was given to her by a friend) was met with little enthusiasm.
Gary praises a marvelous new play called At The Table, produced by Broken Nose Theatre Company at the Den Theatre. It's one of the finest examples of ensemble acting we've seen in a long while, and though the extended production is sold out through its current run, this fine piece is sure to find a long life in regional theaters across the country. Broken Nose is a "pay-what-you-can" company, where you set your own ticket price, which makes seeing this great work affordable for many more people. You can read the rave reviews of the play here.
After falling for his voice on American Idol, Julia spent many years as a Clay Aiken fan, traveling the country to see him in concert with a group of like-minded Aiken-ites. She fell into this group almost by accident, but after seeing nearly 40 concerts, and ten performances of Spamalot when Aiken was in the Broadway cast, she grew to appreciate his talent, showmanship and wit. Julia was selected to read one of her stories on stage several times during various Aiken performances, and by all accounts stopped the show with her rendition of the time her dress caught on fire while performing with Moonglow. Gary recalls seeing Julia do her story at the historic Genesee Theatre when he booked Clay some years ago. It was a memorable performance. Watch for Clay in the next Sharknado movie on the Syfy Channel.
On a related note - you can now see the 1975 Spielberg thriller Jaws on the big screen - while sitting in a shark-logo inner tube at night on an inky-black lake in Texas! It's the ultimate test of nerves and shark-phobia, fulled by food and liquid refreshment, including local beers. Probably not something that Gary is willing to do anytime soon. Jaws on the Water is presented by the Alamo Drafthouse at Volente Beach Water Park outside of Austin. Tickets are $55.
Speaking of stories, Gary asks Julia to read one of her other stories on the air - a piece called Kissing Frogs and Other Amphibians. It's a recollection of Julia's varied dating history, particularly of the blind type. Funny and touching, it's a good example of Julia's insight and attention to detail that make her storytelling so compelling.
Don't miss this season's Grant Park Music Festival Broadway event, A Broadway Romance, July 21 & 22. Gary will be doing the pre-concert presentation before each performance of thi...Chill out with a mid-summer edition of Booth One!
Gary’s good friend and storyteller extraordinaire Julia Maish joins us in the Booth this week. Julia is Manager of Media Relations for WTTW and WFMT and has worked as an actress and jazz singer in Chicago.

We ask Julia about her early days working with The Second City. She was the sole administrative employee when she was there and tells an hilarious story about how on her last day, her boss swept all the cash from the safe into a paper bag to compensate her for the many vacation days she never took. A dramatic and thoughtful gesture.

Though she never had the desire to jump into the improvisation scene, Julia made a fine career out of doing scripted theater with the likes of Frank Farrell and Paul Sills. She relates her experiences with site-specific Shakespeare and the physical demands and dangers of acting. Also the 24-hour Shakespeare Marathon, the first of its kind in Chicago.

Julia talks about her meeting President Barack Obama on several occasions, including during his run for Senate. At a debate organized by Julia, Obama arrives late and is ascended upon by a gaggle of press. There is apparently a photo of Julia and the aspiring senator out there somewhere, but alas, a lengthy search proved fruitless. Listeners, please forward to us if you should come across it.

For many years, Julia was part of a vocal jazz trio know as Three A.M., and later changed to Moonglow. Her suggestion to the group that they change their name again to Cakes Men Like (from a cookbook title that was given to her by a friend) was met with little enthusiasm.

Gary praises a marvelous new play called At The Table, produced by Broken Nose Theatre Company at the Den Theatre. It’s one of the finest examples of ensemble acting we’ve seen in a long while, and though the extended production is sold out through its current run, this fine piece is sure to find a long life in regional theaters across the country. Broken Nose is a “pay-what-you-can” company, where you set your own ticket price, which makes seeing this great work affordable for many more people. You can read the rave reviews of the play here.
After falling for his voice on American Idol, Julia spent many years as a Clay Aiken fan, traveling the country to see him in concert with a group of like-minded Aiken-ites. She fell into this group almost by accident, but after seeing nearly 40 concerts, and ten performances of Spamalot when Aiken was in the Broadway cast, she grew to appreciate his talent, showmanship and wit. Julia was selected to read one of her stories on stage several times during various Aiken performances, and by all accounts stopped the show with her rendition of the time her dress caught on fire while performing with Moonglow. Gary recalls seeing Julia do her story at the historic Genesee Theatre when he booked Clay some years ago. It was a memorable performance. Watch for Clay in the next Sharknado movie on the Syfy Channel.

On a related note – you can now see the 1975 Spielberg thriller Jaws on the big screen – while sitting in a shark-logo inner tube at night on an inky-black lake in Texas! It’s the ultimate test of nerves and shark-phobia, fulled by food and liquid refreshment, including local beers. Probably not something that Gary is willing to do anytime soon. Jaws on the Water is presented by the Alamo Drafthouse at Volente Beach Water Park outside of Austin. Tickets are $55.

Speaking of stories, Gary asks Julia to read one of her other stories on the air – a piece called Kissing Frogs and Other Amphibians. It’s a recollection of Julia’s varied dating history, particularly of the blind type. Funny and touching, it’s a good example of Julia’s insight and attention to detail that make her storytelling so compelling.

Don’t miss this season’s Grant Park Music Festival Broadway event, A Broadway Romance, July 21 & 22. Gary will be doing the pre-concert presentation before each performance of this musical journey through love and relationships, where his guests will be Musical Director Ted Sperling, and Broadway stage stars Laura Osnes (pictured at left) and Santino Fontana.

Kiss of Death:

Sheila Michaels – Midwife to the popularization of the honorific “Ms.” In the 1960s, Sheila Michaels was seeking a title for a woman who did not “belong” to a man. She first came across the term after seeing it on the label of a Marxist publication addressed to her then roommate in New York. When Sheila mentioned the little-known term Ms. on a radio program, Gloria Steinam heard the broadcast and adopted the term for her new magazine that debuted in 1971. Ms. Michaels leaves a legacy both minute and momentous: two consonants and a small dot – three characters that forever changed English discourse. Read Margalit Fox’s full NY Times obituary here.

]]>Chill out with a mid-summer edition of Booth One! Gary's good friend and storyteller extraordinaire Julia Maish joins us in the Booth this week. Julia is Manager of Media Relations for WTTW and WFMT and has worked as an actress and jazz singer in Chic...
Gary's good friend and storyteller extraordinaire Julia Maish joins us in the Booth this week. Julia is Manager of Media Relations for WTTW and WFMT and has worked as an actress and jazz singer in Chicago.

We ask Julia about her early days working with The Second City. She was the sole administrative employee when she was there and tells an hilarious story about how on her last day, her boss swept all the cash from the safe into a paper bag to compensate her for the many vacation days she never took. A dramatic and thoughtful gesture.

Though she never had the desire to jump into the improvisation scene, Julia made a fine career out of doing scripted theater with the likes of Frank Farrell and Paul Sills. She relates her experiences with site-specific Shakespeare and the physical demands and dangers of acting. Also the 24-hour Shakespeare Marathon, the first of its kind in Chicago.

Julia talks about her meeting President Barack Obama on several occasions, including during his run for Senate. At a debate organized by Julia, Obama arrives late and is ascended upon by a gaggle of press. There is apparently a photo of Julia and the aspiring senator out there somewhere, but alas, a lengthy search proved fruitless. Listeners, please forward to us if you should come across it.

For many years, Julia was part of a vocal jazz trio know as Three A.M., and later changed to Moonglow. Her suggestion to the group that they change their name again to Cakes Men Like (from a cookbook title that was given to her by a friend) was met with little enthusiasm.

Gary praises a marvelous new play called At The Table, produced by Broken Nose Theatre Company at the Den Theatre. It's one of the finest examples of ensemble acting we've seen in a long while, and though the extended production is sold out through its current run, this fine piece is sure to find a long life in regional theaters across the country. Broken Nose is a "pay-what-you-can" company, where you set your own ticket price, which makes seeing this great work affordable for many more people. You can read the rave reviews of the play here.
After falling for his voice on American Idol, Julia spent many years as a Clay Aiken fan, traveling the country to see him in concert with a group of like-minded Aiken-ites. She fell into this group almost by accident, but after seeing nearly 40 concerts, and ten performances of Spamalot when Aiken was in the Broadway cast, she grew to appreciate his talent, showmanship and wit. Julia was selected to read one of her stories on stage several times during various Aiken performances, and by all accounts stopped the show with her rendition of the time her dress caught on fire while performing with Moonglow. Gary recalls seeing Julia do her story at the historic Genesee Theatre when he book...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau53:53Broadway Cavalcade – Episode 60https://booth-one.com/2017/07/broadway-cavalcade-episode-60/
Mon, 03 Jul 2017 03:09:22 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2298Gary welcomes actor, director, producer, choreographer, casting and teaching professional Stephen Schellhardt to the co-host chair of Booth One this week. Longtime listeners to the program may remember Stephen as a panel guest when we recorded our all-things Sondheim Episode 38 before a live audience at Writers Theatre. His recent production of Urinetown received glowing notices. See a review here. Stephen will next be seen as Melman the Giraffe in Madagascar The Musical at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, directed by friend of the show, episode 57 guest Rachel Rockwell. More details.
Stephen is about to begin a position at Northwestern University where he'll be teaching Musical Theatre. We're going to put that knowledge to the test in this Episode 60!
Gary and Producer Betsy just returned from a whirlwind trip to New York City where they saw 6 Broadway shows in 5 days! Here's a rundown of the cavalcade:
Sweat - Terrific play with a fine ensemble cast. Khris Davis! This show will have a lot of legs on the regional circuit with one set and important timely subject matter. Sadly, the 2017 Pulitzer Prize-winning play just closed in NY, but it will have a long and profitable life after Broadway.
Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 - Lavish, interactive spectacle of a production, but we found it curiously un-engaging, despite having the best seats of our trip. Gary never found the emotional heart of the piece, though the last 20 minutes are very moving. Still, it's a long slog to get to those final moments and it's not a show we can highly recommend, except for the fact that you'll not see anything else as lavish as this anywhere, and Josh Groban is exceptional as Pierre.
A Doll's House, Part 2 - Laurie Metcalf deserves all the acclaim she's received for this performance in Lucas Hnath's imaginative sequel to Ibsen's classic. The rest of the cast - Jane Houdyshell, Chris Cooper and Condola Rashad, all nominated for Tony's - round out this genuinely entertaining and thought-provoking dramedy. Maybe a bit too short and some unexplored themes, but it's for Metcalf that one should see this particular production. Gary likens her star turn to what it might have been like to see Hepburn or Davis on the stage in their heyday. A true American theater treasure!
The Little Foxes - Seeing Laura Linney and Cynthia Nixon in this searing Lillian Hellman play was to see acting at it's finest. Perfectly cast and superbly staged, Gary and Betsy were also very impressed by Richard Thomas and Michael McKean's performances. We saw the version for which Linney and Nixon were nominated - Regina and Birdie respectively. Stephen comments that the two actresses believe this combination plays against their types. That's what acting is all about, and what a pair of powerhouse actors they are! As of this publication, this show is also now closed, but it's a theater-going memory that will live in our minds for a long time to come.
Come From Away - Words cannot describe the heartfelt joy and spontaneous enthusiasm this show engendered in us. It's a musical that shouldn't really work, given its subject matter and minimalist plot. But it was perhaps our favorite show of the whole trip. This as well will play beautifully in "the provinces", and crowds should certainly adore it as much as the one on the night we saw it. A terrific score and fantastic staging. With a cast of ordinary-looking townsfolk and air passengers, the show utilizes just a single stationary set (with a small turntable), a couple of tables and a dozen or so chairs. When it comes to your town, run, don't walk to experience this gem of a musical! The cast album is on repeat in Stephen's car!
The Play That Goes Wrong - For sheer fun and entertainment, here was a show that we went to on a whim with half-price tickets from the TKTS Booth. This play features a great ensemble of physical comedy actors and a set that fully deserves its Tony Award for Best Scenic Design.Gary welcomes actor, director, producer, choreographer, casting and teaching professional Stephen Schellhardt to the co-host chair of Booth One this week. Longtime listeners to the program may remember Stephen as a panel guest when we recorded our all-things Sondheim Episode 38 before a live audience at Writers Theatre. His recent production of Urinetown received glowing notices. See a review here. Stephen will next be seen as Melman the Giraffe in Madagascar The Musicalat Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, directed by friend of the show, episode 57 guest Rachel Rockwell. More details.

Stephen is about to begin a position at Northwestern University where he’ll be teaching Musical Theatre. We’re going to put that knowledge to the test in this Episode 60!

Gary and Producer Betsy just returned from a whirlwind trip to New York City where they saw 6 Broadway shows in 5 days! Here’s a rundown of the cavalcade:

Sweat – Terrific play with a fine ensemble cast. Khris Davis! This show will have a lot of legs on the regional circuit with one set and important timely subject matter. Sadly, the 2017 Pulitzer Prize-winning play just closed in NY, but it will have a long and profitable life after Broadway.

Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 – Lavish, interactive spectacle of a production, but we found it curiously un-engaging, despite having the best seats of our trip. Gary never found the emotional heart of the piece, though the last 20 minutes are very moving. Still, it’s a long slog to get to those final moments and it’s not a show we can highly recommend, except for the fact that you’ll not see anything else as lavish as this anywhere, and Josh Groban is exceptional as Pierre.

A Doll’s House, Part 2 – Laurie Metcalf deserves all the acclaim she’s received for this performance in Lucas Hnath’s imaginative sequel to Ibsen’s classic. The rest of the cast – Jane Houdyshell, Chris Cooper and Condola Rashad, all nominated for Tony’s – round out this genuinely entertaining and thought-provoking dramedy. Maybe a bit too short and some unexplored themes, but it’s for Metcalf that one should see this particular production. Gary likens her star turn to what it might have been like to see Hepburn or Davis on the stage in their heyday. A true American theater treasure!

The Little Foxes – Seeing Laura Linney and Cynthia Nixon in this searing Lillian Hellman play was to see acting at it’s finest. Perfectly cast and superbly staged, Gary and Betsy were also very impressed by Richard Thomas and Michael McKean’s performances. We saw the version for which Linney and Nixon were nominated – Regina and Birdie respectively. Stephen comments that the two actresses believe this combination plays against their types. That’s what acting is all about, and what a pair of powerhouse actors they are! As of this publication, this show is also now closed, but it’s a theater-going memory that will live in our minds for a long time to come.

Come From Away – Words cannot describe the heartfelt joy and spontaneous enthusiasm this show engendered in us. It’s a musical that shouldn’t really work, given its subject matter and minimalist plot. But it was perhaps our favorite show of the whole trip. This as well will play beautifully in “the provinces”, and crowds should certainly adore it as much as the one on the night we saw it. A terrific score and fantastic staging. With a cast of ordinary-looking townsfolk and air passengers, the show utilizes just a single stationary set (with a small turntable), a couple of tables and a dozen or so chairs. When it comes to your town, run, don’t walk to experience this gem of a musical! The cast album is on repeat in Stephen’s car!

The Play That Goes Wrong – For sheer fun and entertainment, here was a show that we went to on a whim with half-price tickets from the TKTS Booth. This play features a great ensemble of physical comedy actors and a set that fully deserves its Tony Award for Best Scenic Design. Hilarious from beginning to end, with audience interaction the rival of Natasha/Pierre, Gary envisions another long life for this show.

Our trip was capped off by scoring Booth One seats at the famous Joe Allen for Tony night! We were treated royally and had unobstructed and uninterrupted views of the entire ceremony on large screen monitors. If you ever want the ultimate Tony experience (without actually being there), try Joe Allen some year.

Stephen and Gary discuss the recent Shakespeare in the Park production of Julius Caesar, where the title character was costumed and made-up to resemble a Trump-like figure. Many outcries and protests ensued, with some protesters being forcibly removed from the venue. It’s a fascinating example of life imitating art imitating life. Stephen welcomes the conversation and the engagement. Read here what actor Cory Stoll, who played Brutus, has to say about his experience.

Gary has found a kindred spirit in his fear of sharks in Stephen Schellhardt! Unbelievably, Olympic swimming legend Michael Phelps is slated to race against a Great White Shark on the Discovery Channel’s Shark Week programming. It should be no contest, as sharks have been clocked at 25-30 miles per hour. Phelps is probably closer to 5. No telling what the decorated medalist is thinking. Hope they’re not in the same pool! Watch the hilarious trailer.

Mr. Sallis brought genial eccentricity to the voice of the cheese-loving Wallace in a series of Claymation stop-motion animated films, from 1990s “A Grand Day Out” to ” “The Wrong Trousers” to “The Curse of the Were-Rabbit” in 2005. His voice has been described as a “welcome pair of warm slippers in an uncertain world.” Born in Twickenham in 1921, Mr. Sallis got the acting bug while serving in the Royal Air Force and may be best known in England for the 37 years he spent as a star of the BBC sitcom “Last of the Summer Wine,” in which he played one of three older gents. Peter Sallis was 96.

]]>Gary welcomes actor, director, producer, choreographer, casting and teaching professional Stephen Schellhardt to the co-host chair of Booth One this week. Longtime listeners to the program may remember Stephen as a panel guest when we recorded our all-...Writers Theatre. His recent production of Urinetown received glowing notices. See a review here. Stephen will next be seen as Melman the Giraffe in Madagascar The Musical at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, directed by friend of the show, episode 57 guest Rachel Rockwell. More details.

Stephen is about to begin a position at Northwestern University where he'll be teaching Musical Theatre. We're going to put that knowledge to the test in this Episode 60!

Gary and Producer Betsy just returned from a whirlwind trip to New York City where they saw 6 Broadway shows in 5 days! Here's a rundown of the cavalcade:

Sweat - Terrific play with a fine ensemble cast. Khris Davis! This show will have a lot of legs on the regional circuit with one set and important timely subject matter. Sadly, the 2017 Pulitzer Prize-winning play just closed in NY, but it will have a long and profitable life after Broadway.

Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 - Lavish, interactive spectacle of a production, but we found it curiously un-engaging, despite having the best seats of our trip. Gary never found the emotional heart of the piece, though the last 20 minutes are very moving. Still, it's a long slog to get to those final moments and it's not a show we can highly recommend, except for the fact that you'll not see anything else as lavish as this anywhere, and Josh Groban is exceptional as Pierre.

A Doll's House, Part 2 - Laurie Metcalf deserves all the acclaim she's received for this performance in Lucas Hnath's imaginative sequel to Ibsen's classic. The rest of the cast - Jane Houdyshell, Chris Cooper and Condola Rashad, all nominated for Tony's - round out this genuinely entertaining and thought-provoking dramedy. Maybe a bit too short and some unexplored themes, but it's for Metcalf that one should see this particular production. Gary likens her star turn to what it might have been like to see Hepburn or Davis on the stage in their heyday. A true American theater treasure!

The Little Foxes - Seeing Laura Linney and Cynthia Nixon in this searing Lillian Hellman play was to see acting at it's finest. Perfectly cast and superbly staged, Gary and Betsy were also very impressed by Richard Thomas and Michael McKean's performances. We saw the version for which Linney and Nixon were nominated - Regina and Birdie respectively. Stephen comments that the two actresses believe this combination plays against their types. That's what acting is all about, and what a pair of powerhouse actors they are! As of this publication, this show is also now closed, but it's a theater-going memory that will live in our minds for ...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau1:02:19Pass Over – Playwright Antoinette Nwandu & Director Danya Taymorhttps://booth-one.com/2017/06/pass-playwright-antoinette-nwandu-director-danya-taymor/
Sun, 11 Jun 2017 17:14:14 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2275Gary interviews playwright Antoinette Nwandu and director Danya Taymor during rehearsals of Nwandu's play Pass Over, on site at the Steppenwolf Theatre. We are attending a press performance on June 13 and cannot wait!
They share fascinating insights about the process of creating a world premiere, with Antoinette developing the script throughout the rehearsal period. These two are absolutely inspiring as artistic collaborators. So much mutual respect, affection, and humor. Booth One would love to be in the rehearsal room!
Antoinette describes Pass Over: “At its core, this play asks us collectively to consider the value of black lives, specifically the lives of young black men who are not extraordinary, who are not entertainers, they’re not athletes, they’re not secret math geniuses. They're young men who might never get better, who might never be different. This play challenges us to envision a society that does not ask these young men to prove their worth.”
Inspired in part by two young black men Antoinette taught in community college, she riffs on ideas and themes from both Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot and the Book of Exodus.
The cast includes friend of the show, Jon Michael Hill; co-founder of Definition Theatre Company, Julian Parker; and Ryan Hallahan, from the acclaimed cast of Straight White Men, also at Steppenwolf.
Ms. Nwandu tells us the Cinderella story about how this play came to be produced at Steppenwolf. Thrilling!
Not only a great director, Danya is also a translator. Her story about the translating partners she works with is fascinating. Antoinette also tells us Danya has "world class knowledge of all theater." Our producer is wanting a trivia contest between Danya and Gary...
A couple of our favorite quotes from the interview: Danya: "The truth of this play can shift on a dime." Antoinette: "I write with a lot of jagged tonal shifts."
When asked who they would like to spend a month being mentored by, Danya chooses European director extraordinaire Romeo Castellucci. Antoinette chooses the remarkable playwright Caryl Churchill. Good calls!
Danya and Antoinette are two theatre artists that are without a doubt "going places". Booth One is so excited to follow their skyrocketing careers.
Gary interviews playwright Antoinette Nwandu and director Danya Taymor during rehearsals of Nwandu’s play Pass Over, on siteat the Steppenwolf Theatre. We are attending a press performance on June 13 and cannot wait!

They share fascinating insights about the process of creating a world premiere, with Antoinette developing the script throughout the rehearsal period. These two are absolutely inspiring as artistic collaborators. So much mutual respect, affection, and humor. Booth One would love to be in the rehearsal room!

Antoinette describes Pass Over: “At its core, this play asks us collectively to consider the value of black lives, specifically the lives of young black men who are not extraordinary, who are not entertainers, they’re not athletes, they’re not secret math geniuses. They’re young men who might never get better, who might never be different. This play challenges us to envision a society that does not ask these young men to prove their worth.”
Inspired in part by two young black men Antoinette taught in community college, she riffs on ideas and themes from both Samuel Beckett‘s Waiting for Godot and the Book of Exodus.

Ms. Nwandu tells us the Cinderella story about how this play came to be produced at Steppenwolf. Thrilling!

Not only a great director, Danya is also a translator. Her story about the translating partners she works with is fascinating. Antoinette also tells us Danya has “world class knowledge of all theater.” Our producer is wanting a trivia contest between Danya and Gary…

A couple of our favorite quotes from the interview: Danya: “The truth of this play can shift on a dime.” Antoinette: “I write with a lot of jagged tonal shifts.”

When asked who they would like to spend a month being mentored by, Danya chooses European director extraordinaire Romeo Castellucci. Antoinette chooses the remarkable playwright Caryl Churchill. Good calls!

Danya and Antoinette are two theatre artists that are without a doubt “going places”. Booth One is so excited to follow their skyrocketing careers.

]]>Gary interviews playwright Antoinette Nwandu and director Danya Taymor during rehearsals of Nwandu's play Pass Over, on site at the Steppenwolf Theatre. We are attending a press performance on June 13 and cannot wait! - Antoinette Nwandu and director Danya Taymor during rehearsals of Nwandu's play Pass Over, on site at the Steppenwolf Theatre. We are attending a press performance on June 13 and cannot wait!

They share fascinating insights about the process of creating a world premiere, with Antoinette developing the script throughout the rehearsal period. These two are absolutely inspiring as artistic collaborators. So much mutual respect, affection, and humor. Booth One would love to be in the rehearsal room!

Antoinette describes Pass Over: “At its core, this play asks us collectively to consider the value of black lives, specifically the lives of young black men who are not extraordinary, who are not entertainers, they’re not athletes, they’re not secret math geniuses. They're young men who might never get better, who might never be different. This play challenges us to envision a society that does not ask these young men to prove their worth.”

Inspired in part by two young black men Antoinette taught in community college, she riffs on ideas and themes from both Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot and the Book of Exodus.

Ms. Nwandu tells us the Cinderella story about how this play came to be produced at Steppenwolf. Thrilling!

Not only a great director, Danya is also a translator. Her story about the translating partners she works with is fascinating. Antoinette also tells us Danya has "world class knowledge of all theater." Our producer is wanting a trivia contest between Danya and Gary...

A couple of our favorite quotes from the interview: Danya: "The truth of this play can shift on a dime." Antoinette: "I write with a lot of jagged tonal shifts."

When asked who they would like to spend a month being mentored by, Danya chooses European director extraordinaire Romeo Castellucci. Antoinette chooses the remarkable playwright Caryl Churchill. Good calls!

Danya and Antoinette are two theatre artists that are without a doubt "going places". Booth One is so excited to follow their skyrocketing careers.

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau38:24Gluteal Amnesia – Audio Book Narrator & Theatre Artist Extraordinaire, Kevin Theis – Episode 58https://booth-one.com/2017/05/gluteal-amnesia-audio-book-narrator-theatre-artist-extraordinaire-kevin-theis-episode-58/
Sun, 28 May 2017 21:21:26 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2240Booth One welcomes back co-host Paul Stroili, and special guest Kevin Theis, actor, writer, director and audio book narrator, for some wild and wacky conversation. Kevin recently directed The My Way Residential, a world premiere play by Geraldine Aaron for the Irish Theatre of Chicago, running though June 25, 2017 at the Den Theatre. Can't wait to see it!
In our ongoing fascination with shark stories, we discovered this: When porn star Molly Cavalli dropped down under water into a shark cage wearing a "white hot swimsuit," her presence apparently enticed a 10-foot lemon shark. The next thing you know she's screaming as she clutches her bloody foot. Check out the video. Further evidence to never get out of the boat!
Kevin describes his audio narrating career reading some of the world's great books, like Jack London's Call of the Wild, the Autobiography of Charles Darwin, Sun Tzu's The Art of War, and of course the classic, Bigfoot and Frankenstein! Kevin records for Audible, and has newly formed his own audio book company, Fort Raphael Publishing Company.
Booth One gets health conscious by reporting on gluteal amnesia, commonly known as Sleeping Butt Syndrome. Sitting all day can lead to a flat butt because muscles are disengaged for so long they forget how to wake up. The cures? Walk around for 30 seconds every half hour. Get a standing desk like most Scandinavians have (of course). Use a foam roller. Vary your workouts to include donkey kicks, squats and planks. Testing for sleeping butt syndrome is easy - squeeze each butt cheek to see if it engages. Keep moving and stay healthy!
The world's oldest person has died....again! Emma Morano, 117, the last person known to have been born in the 1800s. Born in Piedmont, Italy in 1899, Morano credited her longevity to ending her abusive marriage in 1938 and a diet of raw eggs and cookies. She held the Guinness World Record titles for oldest living person and oldest living woman. Stay tuned for more updates on the world's oldest living humans.
Paul Stroili's first feature film begins shooting in Long Beach in June. We are excited for him and will keep you posted!
Gary, Paul and Kevin take a crack at 36 Questions Designed to Help You Fall in Love with Anyone. Asking thirty-six specific questions plus four minutes of sustained eye contact is purportedly a recipe for falling in love, or at least creating intimacy among complete strangers. After sampling select questions, the guys feel increased familiarity and trust, though 4 minutes of silent eye contact is bad for the podcast medium. Try this technique the next time you're out on a date or to create sparks between you and your companion. Or just as a parlor game! It's a marvelous alternative to Chat Pack.
Kiss of Death:
Lawrence Anthony, who grew up in the bush and was known as the "Elephant Whisperer." Following his death on March 2, directed by no one, two herds of wild South African elephants slowly made a 12-hour journey to the home of Mr. Anthony in a stirring procession to make a call on the bereaved family at the deceased man's home. Known for his unique ability to calm traumatized elephants, Anthony had become a legend for rescuing and rehabilitating "rogue" elephants. You can buy The Elephant Whisperer book through Amazon.
Booth One welcomes back co-host Paul Stroili, and special guest Kevin Theis,actor, writer, director and audio book narrator, for some wild and wacky conversation. Kevin recently directed The My Way Residential, a world premiere play by Geraldine Aaron for the Irish Theatre of Chicago, running though June 25, 2017 at the Den Theatre. Can’t wait to see it!

In our ongoing fascination with shark stories, we discovered this: When porn star Molly Cavalli dropped down under water into a shark cage wearing a “white hot swimsuit,” her presence apparently enticed a 10-foot lemon shark. The next thing you know she’s screaming as she clutches her bloody foot. Check out the video. Further evidence to never get out of the boat!

Kevin describes his audio narrating career reading some of the world’s great books, like Jack London’sCall of the Wild, the Autobiography of Charles Darwin, Sun Tzu’sThe Art of War, and of course the classic, Bigfoot and Frankenstein! Kevin records for Audible, and has newly formed his own audio book company, Fort Raphael Publishing Company.

Booth One gets health conscious by reporting on gluteal amnesia, commonly known as Sleeping Butt Syndrome. Sitting all day can lead to a flat butt because muscles are disengaged for so long they forget how to wake up. The cures? Walk around for 30 seconds every half hour. Get a standing desk like most Scandinavians have (of course). Use a foam roller. Vary your workouts to include donkey kicks, squats and planks. Testing for sleeping butt syndrome is easy – squeeze each butt cheek to see if it engages. Keep moving and stay healthy!

The world’s oldest person has died….again! Emma Morano, 117, the last person known to have been born in the 1800s. Born in Piedmont, Italy in 1899, Morano credited her longevity to ending her abusive marriage in 1938 and a diet of raw eggs and cookies. She held the Guinness World Record titles for oldest living person and oldest living woman. Stay tuned for more updates on the world’s oldest living humans.

Paul Stroili’s first feature film begins shooting in Long Beach in June. We are excited for him and will keep you posted!

Gary, Paul and Kevin take a crack at 36 Questions Designed to Help You Fall in Love with Anyone. Asking thirty-six specific questions plus four minutes of sustained eye contact is purportedly a recipe for falling in love, or at least creating intimacy among complete strangers. After sampling select questions, the guys feel increased familiarity and trust, though 4 minutes of silent eye contact is bad for the podcast medium. Try this technique the next time you’re out on a date or to create sparks between you and your companion. Or just as a parlor game! It’s a marvelous alternative to Chat Pack.

Kiss of Death:

Lawrence Anthony, who grew up in the bush and was known as the “Elephant Whisperer.” Following his death on March 2, directed by no one, two herds of wild South African elephants slowly made a 12-hour journey to the home of Mr. Anthony in a stirring procession to make a call on the bereaved family at the deceased man’s home. Known for his unique ability to calm traumatized elephants, Anthony had become a legend for rescuing and rehabilitating “rogue” elephants. You can buy The Elephant Whisperer book through Amazon.

]]>Booth One welcomes back co-host Paul Stroili, and special guest Kevin Theis, actor, writer, director and audio book narrator, for some wild and wacky conversation. Kevin recently directed The My Way Residential,Kevin Theis, actor, writer, director and audio book narrator, for some wild and wacky conversation. Kevin recently directed The My Way Residential, a world premiere play by Geraldine Aaron for the Irish Theatre of Chicago, running though June 25, 2017 at the Den Theatre. Can't wait to see it!

In our ongoing fascination with shark stories, we discovered this: When porn star Molly Cavalli dropped down under water into a shark cage wearing a "white hot swimsuit," her presence apparently enticed a 10-foot lemon shark. The next thing you know she's screaming as she clutches her bloody foot. Check out the video. Further evidence to never get out of the boat!

Kevin describes his audio narrating career reading some of the world's great books, like Jack London's Call of the Wild, the Autobiography of Charles Darwin, Sun Tzu's The Art of War, and of course the classic, Bigfoot and Frankenstein! Kevin records for Audible, and has newly formed his own audio book company, Fort Raphael Publishing Company.

Booth One gets health conscious by reporting on gluteal amnesia, commonly known as Sleeping Butt Syndrome. Sitting all day can lead to a flat butt because muscles are disengaged for so long they forget how to wake up. The cures? Walk around for 30 seconds every half hour. Get a standing desk like most Scandinavians have (of course). Use a foam roller. Vary your workouts to include donkey kicks, squats and planks. Testing for sleeping butt syndrome is easy - squeeze each butt cheek to see if it engages. Keep moving and stay healthy!

The world's oldest person has died....again! Emma Morano, 117, the last person known to have been born in the 1800s. Born in Piedmont, Italy in 1899, Morano credited her longevity to ending her abusive marriage in 1938 and a diet of raw eggs and cookies. She held the Guinness World Record titles for oldest living person and oldest living woman. Stay tuned for more updates on the world's oldest living humans.

Paul Stroili's first feature film begins shooting in Long Beach in June. We are excited for him and will keep you posted!

Gary, Paul and Kevin take a crack at 36 Questions Designed to Help You Fall in Love with Anyone. Asking thirty-six specific questions plus four minutes of sustained eye contact is purportedly a recipe for falling in love, or at least creating intimacy among complete strangers. After sampling select questions,]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau52:57All About Process – Director/Choreographer Rachel Rockwellhttps://booth-one.com/2017/05/process-directorchoreographer-rachel-rockwell/
Mon, 08 May 2017 03:03:59 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2219Booth One welcomes the amazing Rachel Rockwell to our studios amidst her action-packed schedule. Her beautiful production of Shakespeare in Love has just opened at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, and she has about a million other irons in the fire.
As a choreographer, Rachel was nominated for Joseph Jefferson Awards for The King & I (2007) and A Chorus Line (2011). As a director, she received Jeff Award nominations for Miss Saigon (2009); The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee—Best Musical (2009); Ragtime (2010) and 42nd Street (2011). For her acclaimed Drury Lane Oakbrook Theatre production of Ragtime (11 Jeff nominations and seven awards), she received the Joseph Jefferson Award as Best Director of a musical. As Director, Jeff Award nominations (2012) for Best Director and Best Musical: The Sound of Music and Sweeney Todd at Drury Lane Oakbrook Theatre; and Best Play: Enron at Timeline Theatre Company. In 2013, her production of Oliver! received a Jeff nomination for Best Musical. In 2014, she received Jeff Award nominations (Director, Choreography and Best Musical) for the revival of Brigadoon at The Goodman Theatre and Les Miserables at Drury Lane Oakbrook. Her production of Brigadoon was named Best Musical and she was named Best Choreographer for that production. She won the Jeff Award for Best Choreography for her production of Billy Eliot in 2015. In 2016, she won the Jeff Award as Best Director for her production of Ride The Cyclone at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre.[22]
She has directed notable Children's Theatre productions at Chicago Shakespeare Theater. At CST, she also choreographed productions of The Merry Wives of Windsor, Romeo and Juliet, and Measure For Measure. Since the mid-nineties, Rockwell has directed and choreographed dozens of productions for such theaters as: Steppenwolf, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Drury Lane Theatre Oakbrook, Marriott Theatre Lincolnshire, Paramount Theatre, Noble Fool Theatricals, Fox Valley Repertory, Apple Tree, The Little Theatre on the Square, SIU Summer Theatre and McCleod Summer Playhouse.
Rachel is also working on writing and developing new musicals. Look out world!!! Booth One has a couple of ideas we may be passing by her desk.
Rachel is the third musical genius to come on our show who hails from Indiana. Beckie Menzie and Danni Smith, both past guests and friends of the show, cultivated their talents in the Hoosier State. We're wondering what's in the water over there!?
Rachel credits her success to a long line of mentors and teachers, including Buzz Miller, who danced Bob Fosse's brilliant choreography in the seminal "Steam Heat" on Broadway and in the film of The Pajama Game.
Rachel was Dance Captain in Mamma Mia on Broadway and the National Tour, and she gives us some backstage insight about what a difficult and important job this is.
She choreographs in her car(!) and counter-clockwise in her living room to avoid the coffee table. So yeah, kind of a genius. Deb Acker, the production stage manager at Chicago Shakespeare, says Rachel is the most prepared director she's ever worked with. Rachel tells us why she prepares so thoroughly.
Gary and Rachel talk the 2017 Tony Award nominations and Rachel particularly recommends Come From Away.
Martha Lavey, a mentor to us all and a huge force in the Chicago theater community, is our Kiss of Death segment this week. There are no words. But these journalists come close:
Hedy Weiss for the Chicago Sun Times
Chris Jone for the Chicago Tribune
New York Times
Booth One welcomes the amazing Rachel Rockwell to our studios amidst her action-packed schedule. Her beautiful production of Shakespeare in Love has just opened at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, and she has about a million other irons in the fire.

As a choreographer, Rachel was nominated for Joseph Jefferson Awards for The King & I (2007) and A Chorus Line (2011).As a director, she received Jeff Award nominations for Miss Saigon (2009);The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee—Best Musical (2009); Ragtime (2010) and 42nd Street (2011). For her acclaimed Drury Lane Oakbrook Theatre production of Ragtime (11 Jeff nominations and seven awards), she received the Joseph Jefferson Award as Best Director of a musical.As Director, Jeff Award nominations (2012) for Best Director and Best Musical: The Sound of Music and Sweeney Todd at Drury Lane Oakbrook Theatre; and Best Play: Enron at Timeline Theatre Company. In 2013, her production of Oliver! received a Jeff nomination for Best Musical. In 2014, she received Jeff Award nominations (Director, Choreography and Best Musical) for the revival of Brigadoon at The Goodman Theatre and Les Miserables at Drury Lane Oakbrook. Her production of Brigadoon was named Best Musical and she was named Best Choreographer for that production. She won the Jeff Award for Best Choreography for her production of Billy Eliotin 2015. In 2016, she won the Jeff Award as Best Director for her production of Ride The Cyclone at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre.[22]

Rachel is also working on writing and developing new musicals. Look out world!!! Booth One has a couple of ideas we may be passing by her desk.

Rachel is the third musical genius to come on our show who hails from Indiana. Beckie Menzie and Danni Smith, both past guests and friends of the show, cultivated their talents in the Hoosier State. We’re wondering what’s in the water over there!?

Rachel credits her success to a long line of mentors and teachers, including Buzz Miller, who danced Bob Fosse’s brilliant choreography in the seminal “Steam Heat” on Broadway and in the film of The Pajama Game.

Rachel was Dance Captain in Mamma Mia on Broadway and the National Tour, and she gives us some backstage insight about what a difficult and important job this is.

She choreographs in her car(!) and counter-clockwise in her living room to avoid the coffee table. So yeah, kind of a genius. Deb Acker, the production stage manager at Chicago Shakespeare, says Rachel is the most prepared director she’s ever worked with. Rachel tells us why she prepares so thoroughly.

]]>Booth One welcomes the amazing Rachel Rockwell to our studios amidst her action-packed schedule. Her beautiful production of Shakespeare in Love has just opened at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, and she has about a million other irons in the fire. Rachel Rockwell to our studios amidst her action-packed schedule. Her beautiful production of Shakespeare in Love has just opened at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, and she has about a million other irons in the fire.

As a choreographer, Rachel was nominated for Joseph Jefferson Awards for The King & I (2007) and A Chorus Line (2011). As a director, she received Jeff Award nominations for Miss Saigon (2009); The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee—Best Musical (2009); Ragtime (2010) and 42nd Street (2011). For her acclaimed Drury Lane Oakbrook Theatre production of Ragtime (11 Jeff nominations and seven awards), she received the Joseph Jefferson Award as Best Director of a musical. As Director, Jeff Award nominations (2012) for Best Director and Best Musical: The Sound of Music and Sweeney Todd at Drury Lane Oakbrook Theatre; and Best Play: Enron at Timeline Theatre Company. In 2013, her production of Oliver! received a Jeff nomination for Best Musical. In 2014, she received Jeff Award nominations (Director, Choreography and Best Musical) for the revival of Brigadoon at The Goodman Theatre and Les Miserables at Drury Lane Oakbrook. Her production of Brigadoon was named Best Musical and she was named Best Choreographer for that production. She won the Jeff Award for Best Choreography for her production of Billy Eliot in 2015. In 2016, she won the Jeff Award as Best Director for her production of Ride The Cyclone at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre.[22]

Rachel is also working on writing and developing new musicals. Look out world!!! Booth One has a couple of ideas we may be passing by her desk.

Rachel is the third musical genius to come on our show who hails from Indiana. Beckie Menzie and Danni Smith, both past guests and friends of the show, cultivated their talents in the Hoosier State. We're wondering what's in the water over there!?

Rachel credits her success to a long line of mentors and teachers, including Buzz Miller, who danced Bob Fosse's brilliant choreography in the seminal "Steam Heat" on Broadway and in the film of The Pajama Game.

Rachel was Dance Captain in Mamma Mia on Broadway and the National Tour, and she gives us some backstage insight about what a difficult and important job this is.

She choreographs in her car(!) and counter-clockwise in her living room to avoid the coffee table. So yeah, kind of a genius. Deb Acker, the production stage manager at Chicago Shakespeare, says Rachel is the most prepared director she's ever worked with. Rachel tells us why she prepares so thoroughly.

Newell grew up in the Washington, DC area and first fell in love with theater when he saw an Arena Stage production of Death of a Salesman as a young boy. He studied at Wesleyan University, then honed his craft through a series of professional apprenticeships with some of the country’s most outstanding theater artists, including Garland Wright at the Tyrone Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis.

Charlie’s most recent work is a production of Tom Stoppard‘s The Hard Problem. The title comes from philosopher David Chalmers’ term to describe scientific efforts to understand consciousness. We discuss this play in depth as well as Newell’s close relationship with Mr. Stoppard. Charlie and Tom have consulted personally on a number of other Stoppard productions Charlie has directed. For this one, they had almost daily conversations about the play during rehearsals. In his early career as a stage manager, Gary had the great privilege to work on the Broadway and National touring productions of Stoppard’s The Real Thing. He and Charlie trade stories about working with Stoppard and what a true man of the theater he really is.

Much like Stoppard’s other works, The Hard Problem is a tricky play to fully comprehend on a single viewing. Charlie talks about the way Stoppard’s focus is centered on the emotional connections between the characters rather than the intellectual ideas. “If one can find the heart of it, the rest will fall into place.” We think you will find the discussion illuminating and fascinating.

Court Theatre takes full advantage of being part of the University of Chicago. In 2010, with the support of some very generous members of the Board of Trustees, Court created The Center for Classic Theatre. “A new way of approaching what it means for a professional theatre to be in residence at a major university. It is an approach to producing that fully accesses the amazing intellectual resources that surround the theatre. This vision influences how Court Theatre builds seasons and serves its audience and community.” The results have been exciting. For instance, this season Court produced the widely acclaimed world premiere of Man in the Ring. Playwright Michael Cristopher won the best new play award from the American Theatre Critics Association.

Still to come this season at Court is a rare production of Mary Chase‘s Harvey. Recently announced for the 2017-18 subscription season: Five Guys Named Moe; The Belle of Amhurst directed by friend of the show Sean Graney and starring Kate Fry; All My Sons; Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner; and The Originalist with Edward Gero as Supreme Court Judge Antonin Scalia.

Some final personal information about Charlie – Favorite City? Chicago (no surprise there!); Other career he would have liked to pursue? Basketball Coach or General Manager. The Chicago Bulls may be looking!

Kiss of Death:

Gilbert Baker, a self-described “gay Betsy Ross,” and creator of the original Rainbow Flag that has become an enduring and universal symbol for inclusion, peace and love. The original banner, created for the 1978 Gay Pride parade in San Francisco, measured 30 x 60 feet and had eight colors, each stripe carrying its own significance. Mr. Baker refused to apply for a trademark for his creation and never made any money from the banner. Gilbert Baker was 65.

]]>Gary and the Booth One crew are pleased to welcome award-winning artistic director of Court Theatre, Mr. Charles Newell to the program. Court is the resident professional theater company of the University of Chicago in Hyde Park.Court Theatre, Mr. Charles Newell to the program. Court is the resident professional theater company of the University of Chicago in Hyde Park. Charlie has been AD at Court since 1994. Under his leadership, Court has, in the words of playwright Tony Kushner, "developed a spectacular reputation as one of the most important theaters in the country." Charlie's directing credits span a spectrum from classic Shakespeare to world premiere dramas and comedies, from musicals to opera. He is the recipient of four Joseph Jefferson Awards for directing, and has been honored by TCG and the League of Chicago Theatres for artistic achievement. Charlie is one of the finest theatrical artists working in America today and refers to himself as "the luckiest man in show business."

Newell grew up in the Washington, DC area and first fell in love with theater when he saw an Arena Stage production of Death of a Salesman as a young boy. He studied at Wesleyan University, then honed his craft through a series of professional apprenticeships with some of the country's most outstanding theater artists, including Garland Wright at the Tyrone Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis.

Charlie's most recent work is a production of Tom Stoppard's The Hard Problem. The title comes from philosopher David Chalmers' term to describe scientific efforts to understand consciousness. We discuss this play in depth as well as Newell's close relationship with Mr. Stoppard. Charlie and Tom have consulted personally on a number of other Stoppard productions Charlie has directed. For this one, they had almost daily conversations about the play during rehearsals. In his early career as a stage manager, Gary had the great privilege to work on the Broadway and National touring productions of Stoppard's The Real Thing. He and Charlie trade stories about working with Stoppard and what a true man of the theater he really is.

Much like Stoppard's other works, The Hard Problem is a tricky play to fully comprehend on a single viewing. Charlie talks about the way Stoppard's focus is centered on the emotional connections between the characters rather than the intellectual ideas. "If one can find the heart of it, the rest will fall into place." We think you will find the discussion illuminating and fascinating.

Paul gives an update on his hit interactive theatrical production of Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding. Some cast changes are in store, at least through the summer, and the good news is that the show continues to sell strongly and bookings are being confirmed for well into the fall of 2017. Congratulations to the entire Tony n’ Tina’s team and best wishes for a long and prosperous run!

Our friends at Broadway In Chicago made sure that both Gary and Paul got to see the recent Circus 1903 spectacular at Chicago’s Oriental Theater, and they loved both the production and the talented performers. Some of our favorites are Ringmaster Willy Whipsnade (David Williamson), aerialist Lucky Moon (Elena Gatilova), The Cycling Cyclone (Florian Blummel), Elastic Dislocationist Senayet Asefa Amare, and juggler extraordinaire Francois Borie.
The highlight of the show are the life-size faux elephants, manipulated by a team of expert puppeteers and designed by the same folks who brought War Horse to life on stage. These pachyderms are so life-like and majestic that you can feel the awe and amazement from the crowd. Their presence, and the focus on the artistry and athleticism of the performers, make this nostalgic homage to the golden age of circus a wonderous experience for young and old alike. Check out the Circus 1903 website for their touring itinerary and don’t miss this performance if it comes to a city near you.

On a sadder note, producers of the long-running musical The Fantasticks have announced its closing in New York….again! Seems that the money from anonymous donors that has kept the show alive the past couple of years has run out and ticket sales are flagging. This is one of Gary’s favorite shows, so if you plan to be in New York before June, try to catch this landmark musical before it closes. Who knows? Your ticket purchase may just contribute to another extension of this beloved show. You can buy tickets here.

Speaking of contributions – if you want to support the Booth One mission of bringing you the best in the art of lively conversation and fascinating guests, go to our DONATE button on this web page and you can make a fully tax deductible donation to our cause. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it would be deeply appreciated by all of us at Booth One. Including Gary’s imaginary teacup pig support animal. Down, Jeanette!

Gary and Paul reminisce about their splendid dinner the night before at friends Nancy and Arne’s Big Nightparty. It was a recreation of the famous over-the-top dinner from the Stanley Tucci/Tony Shaloub 1996 film Big Night, complete with a heavenly appetizer course followed by the centerpiece of the evening, a homemade Timpano (or Timballo in some references). This was a night of laughter, sparkling conversation and sumptuous food. A truly Booth One experience, with an eclectic guest list in a gorgeous setting in our hosts’ Chicago loft with great city views. If you want to try your hand at throwing your own Big Night dinner party, start by getting Lidia’s Mastering the Art of Italian Cuisinecookbook or The Tucci Cookbook. Here’s a good recipe example for Timpano from the New York Times. Go to this link to see photos and a short video of the timpano presentation from our dinner party. Buon appetito!!

Gary revives his Good Times & Bum Times segment with two stories – the “good time” of a Minnesota man who drove his car off an embankment, soared 210 feet over Lake L’Homme Dieu, and landed safely on the partially frozen surface; and the “bum time” of defense attorney Stephen Gutierrez whose pants caught on fire while he was defending an accused arsonist in court. You just can’t make this stuff up!

The Hypocrites Theatre company, one of Booth One’s favorites, is reorganizing under a fresh and bold new business model. They will pitch two plays to potential ticket buyers and ask them to commit to purchasing tickets to one or both. If interest hits critical financial mass, the show or shows will go on. If not, they won’t. This is essentially crowdfunding, and gives the theatre patron a stake in the artistic choices that the Hypocrites will make. Both Gary and Paul applaud this innovative approach, taking a cue from independent film financing models. We wish Hypocrites the best of luck and can’t wait to see how this all pans out for next season.

Kiss Of Death:

Robert Audy, who for forty years was one of the foremost teachers of tap dance and jazz in New York City.

Bob Audy sent a great number of students on to professional jobs in the theater where the skills they learned from him gave them the goods needed to succeed in the show business world. Mr. Audy shared his techniques and choreography with every major dance company in the US, taught workshops in Europe, and released several audio recordings as learning tools. His 1976 Tap Dancing for Beginnersis featured on our program this week, with personal instruction from Bob on various tap steps and combinations. Audy taught many of the great dancers of Broadway and Hollywood to tap, including Shirley MacLaine, Joel Grey, Ben Vereen, Carol Lawrence, and yes, Booth One’s very own Gary Zabinski back in the day! Gary once took a great class with Audy, though his skills have tarnished over the decades. Like so many fine teachers and choreographers, Robert Audy is sorely under-represented on the Web. So we thought we’d bring you a glimpse of one of the finest human beings and theater artists we know.

]]>April Fools' Day finds us recording our 55th Episode! Returning friend of the show Paul Stroili co-hosts this toe-tapping episode with Gary in Booth One. Paul reveals that he is a motorcycle enthusiast and that his father once raced motorcycles in Euro...April Fools' Day finds us recording our 55th Episode! Returning friend of the show Paul Stroili co-hosts this toe-tapping episode with Gary in Booth One. Paul reveals that he is a motorcycle enthusiast and that his father once raced motorcycles in Europe. Riding a "Hog" is a skill that Gary has long wanted to acquire, though driving a Vespa is probably closer to his ability levels of balance and coordination.

Paul gives an update on his hit interactive theatrical production of Tony n' Tina's Wedding. Some cast changes are in store, at least through the summer, and the good news is that the show continues to sell strongly and bookings are being confirmed for well into the fall of 2017. Congratulations to the entire Tony n' Tina's team and best wishes for a long and prosperous run!

Our friends at Broadway In Chicago made sure that both Gary and Paul got to see the recent Circus 1903 spectacular at Chicago's Oriental Theater, and they loved both the production and the talented performers. Some of our favorites are Ringmaster Willy Whipsnade (David Williamson), aerialist Lucky Moon (Elena Gatilova), The Cycling Cyclone (Florian Blummel), Elastic Dislocationist Senayet Asefa Amare, and juggler extraordinaire Francois Borie.
The highlight of the show are the life-size faux elephants, manipulated by a team of expert puppeteers and designed by the same folks who brought War Horse to life on stage. These pachyderms are so life-like and majestic that you can feel the awe and amazement from the crowd. Their presence, and the focus on the artistry and athleticism of the performers, make this nostalgic homage to the golden age of circus a wonderous experience for young and old alike. Check out the Circus 1903 website for their touring itinerary and don't miss this performance if it comes to a city near you.

On a sadder note, producers of the long-running musical The Fantasticks have announced its closing in New York....again! Seems that the money from anonymous donors that has kept the show alive the past couple of years has run out and ticket sales are flagging. This is one of Gary's favorite shows, so if you plan to be in New York before June, try to catch this landmark musical before it closes. Who knows? Your ticket purchase may just contribute to another extension of this beloved show. You can buy tickets here.

Speaking of contributions - if you want to support the Booth One mission of bringing you the best in the art of lively conversation and fascinating guests, go to our DONATE button on this web page and you can make a fully tax deductible donation to our cause. It's quick, it's easy, and it would be deeply appreciated by all of us at Booth One. Including Gary's imaginary teacup pig support animal. Down, Jeanette!

Gary and Paul reminisce about their splendid dinner the night ...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau55:14Frankly Speaking – Theatre teacher and director Frank Tourangeau – Episode 54https://booth-one.com/2017/03/frankly-speaking-theater-teacher-and-director-frank-tourangeau-episode-54/
Sun, 19 Mar 2017 23:38:07 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2095Guest co-host Frank Tourangeau joins Gary in Booth One this week. Frank is a director, educator, speech coach, and all-around performing arts aficionado, whose knowledge of Chicago and New York theater is wide-ranging and insightful. I guess we should call him "Doctor" Tourangeau, as he holds a PhD in Speech and Performance Art from Southern Illinois University, and did his dissertation on the interactions of right brain/left brain as it relates to emotional cognition in performance. Wow. One of the smartest people we know!
Frank once coached our producer in high school speech competitions and relates a few stories about her performance piece and its reception at competitions. More here. Frank is retired now from his professorship at the College of DuPage in Wheaton, IL and spends much of his time supporting theater and film in and around the city of Chicago.
Gary does an Academy Awards recap by reviewing his picks along with those from Roscoe and Paul Stroili. Looks like Gary was the big winner with 6 out of 9 correct picks. Roscoe: 4. Paul: 3. Prize: $0.
Sally Field fares marginally well in reviews of The Glass Menagerie, but the production gets disappointing notices for its deconstructionist quality and unusual staging. We highlight the New York Daily News review as a representative example.
Frank and Gary romp through what's coming to the boards on Broadway and what's "in the works" for future seasons. Select upcoming openings: Come From Away, The Play That Goes Wrong, War Paint, The Little Foxes, Hello, Dolly! and A Doll's House Part 2(!). Scheduled for later - The Prince of Broadway; The Minutes by Tracy Letts; Bombshell, the Marilyn Monroe musical from Smash; The Cher Show; The Devil Wears Prada; Gypsy(again! this time starring Imelda Staunton); To Kill a Mockingbird (adapted by Aaron Sorkin); King Kong from Australia; and The Honeymooners starring Hank Azaria. Will all these come to fruition and make it on the Big White Way? Only time will tell.
We discuss the brilliant new film from Jordan Peele, Get Out, a semi-horror thriller with more than a few twists and turns. Both Frank and Gary like this picture immensely and try not to give too much away while discussing various scenes and plot points. There are elements of science fiction and some suspension of disbelief is required as the harrowing story hurtles its way forward. We encourage everyone to go see it! After you've seen it, read this excellent analysis in The Atlantic. Get Out was produced by friend of the show, Jason Blum. Congratulations, Jason and Blumhouse!
Pride Films and Plays, a new local producing organization whose mission is to change lives by creating diverse new work with LGBTQ+ characters or themes, has mounted a production of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert in a 99-seat theater with as many production elements as can be created in a small space. It features Chicago legend, Honey West! Read a great interview with her here. Sadly, this production will be closed by the time this episode of Booth One airs, but Frank describes the remarkable time he had at a recent viewing and what marvelous work PFP is doing as a young company. Interested listeners should check out the Pride web site for upcoming theatrical and film presentations of important new work.
"Never get out of the boat" is one of Gary's favorite mantras, and this story about Great White Sharks amassing off the coast of Cape Cod reinforces that sage advice. The Boston Globe article enumerates the shark population in this area at 147. Of those predators, 89 are considered "new" sharks, meaning they have not been documented before, and that the population of these giant godless killing machines may be far more than previously estimated. Though the last fatal shark attack in Massachusetts was in 1936, Gary believes the odds are not in man's favor. Swim at your own risk would be a good sign for the beach above! How's that for "public education?"
Guest co-host Frank Tourangeau joins Gary in Booth One this week. Frank is a director, educator, speech coach, and all-around performing arts aficionado, whose knowledge of Chicago and New York theater is wide-ranging and insightful. I guess we should call him “Doctor” Tourangeau, as he holds a PhD in Speech and Performance Art from Southern Illinois University, and did his dissertation on the interactions of right brain/left brain as it relates to emotional cognition in performance. Wow. One of the smartest people we know!

Frank once coached our producer in high school speech competitions and relates a few stories about her performance piece and its reception at competitions. More here. Frank is retired now from his professorship at the College of DuPage in Wheaton, IL and spends much of his time supporting theater and film in and around the city of Chicago.

Gary does an Academy Awards recap by reviewing his picks along with those from Roscoe and Paul Stroili. Looks like Gary was the big winner with 6 out of 9 correct picks. Roscoe: 4. Paul: 3. Prize: $0.

Sally Field fares marginally well in reviews of The Glass Menagerie, but the production gets disappointing notices for its deconstructionist quality and unusual staging. We highlight the New York Daily News review as a representative example.

Frank and Gary romp through what’s coming to the boards on Broadway and what’s “in the works” for future seasons. Select upcoming openings: Come From Away, The Play That Goes Wrong, War Paint, The Little Foxes, Hello, Dolly! and A Doll’s House Part 2(!). Scheduled for later – The Prince of Broadway; The Minutesby Tracy Letts; Bombshell, the Marilyn Monroe musical from Smash; The Cher Show; The Devil Wears Prada; Gypsy(again! this time starring Imelda Staunton); To Kill a Mockingbird (adapted by Aaron Sorkin); King Kong from Australia; and The Honeymooners starring Hank Azaria. Will all these come to fruition and make it on the Big White Way? Only time will tell.

We discuss the brilliant new film from Jordan Peele, Get Out, a semi-horror thriller with more than a few twists and turns. Both Frank and Gary like this picture immensely and try not to give too much away while discussing various scenes and plot points. There are elements of science fiction and some suspension of disbelief is required as the harrowing story hurtles its way forward. We encourage everyone to go see it! After you’ve seen it, read this excellent analysis in The Atlantic. Get Out was produced by friend of the show, Jason Blum. Congratulations, Jason and Blumhouse!

Pride Films and Plays, a new local producing organization whose mission is to change lives by creating diverse new work with LGBTQ+ characters or themes, has mounted a production of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert in a 99-seat theater with as many production elements as can be created in a small space. It features Chicago legend, Honey West! Read a great interview with her here. Sadly, this production will be closed by the time this episode of Booth One airs, but Frank describes the remarkable time he had at a recent viewing and what marvelous work PFP is doing as a young company. Interested listeners should check out the Pride web site for upcoming theatrical and film presentations of important new work.

“Never get out of the boat” is one of Gary’s favorite mantras, and this story about Great White Sharks amassing off the coast of Cape Cod reinforces that sage advice. The Boston Globe article enumerates the shark population in this area at 147. Of those predators, 89 are considered “new” sharks, meaning they have not been documented before, and that the population of these giant godless killing machines may be far more than previously estimated. Though the last fatal shark attack in Massachusetts was in 1936, Gary believes the odds are not in man’s favor. Swim at your own risk would be a good sign for the beach above! How’s that for “public education?”

Feinstein’s/54 Below director of programming Jennifer Ashley Tepper has announced two concert stagings of one of the great flop shows in Broadway history. No, NOT Legs Diamond (Gary stage managed that production). This is Rachael Lily Rosembloom, a cautionary tale about a down-on-her-luck young woman who moves to Hollywood, where she leapfrogs from maid to gossip columnist to unlikely star. All does not go well. The original window card hangs in Joe Allen in New York right between Legs and Doctor Zhivago. (Update: These two concert stagings were done on Monday, March 13).

The series Feud: Bette and Joan continues on Sunday evenings on the FX Channel. Gary and Frank are big fans and appreciate that Susan Sarandon (Bette) and Jessica Lange (Joan) aren’t trying to do impersonations or cheap impressions of these Hollywood legends. They truly appear to be making the characters their own. It’s a tribute to Ryan Murphy‘s talent and dedication to the material that the show tries to show us the real people behind the pubic images. Catch up on the first two episodes on the web and then tune in for more of this 10-part series on FX. Hugely entertaining and a great end-of-the-weekend distraction.

Kiss of Death:

Stanley Bard – Ran Chelsea Hotel as Bohemian Sanctuary

As the proprietor of the Chelsea, Stanley Bard rubbed elbows with a guest list that reads like a Who’s Who of the New York art world: Dylan Thomas, Arthur Miller, Bob Dylan, Arthur C. Clarke, Stanley Kubrick, Leonard Cohen, Christo, Dee Dee Ramone, Joni Mitchell, Dennis Hopper, Madonna, Edie Sedgwick and Robert Mapplethorpe. The Chelsea was where Jack Kerouac wrote “On the Road” and where Bob Dylan wrote “Sad-Eyed Lady of the Lowlands.” Mr. Bard lent long-term residents money and tolerated their overdue bills. He embraced their eccentricities and encouraged their cultural ambitions. You might owe him two months rent and you would cry to him and he would say, “Don’t worry, keep painting, keep painting.” The world needs more Stanleys. Read the full obituary here.

]]>Guest co-host Frank Tourangeau joins Gary in Booth One this week. Frank is a director, educator, speech coach, and all-around performing arts aficionado, whose knowledge of Chicago and New York theater is wide-ranging and insightful.Frank Tourangeau joins Gary in Booth One this week. Frank is a director, educator, speech coach, and all-around performing arts aficionado, whose knowledge of Chicago and New York theater is wide-ranging and insightful. I guess we should call him "Doctor" Tourangeau, as he holds a PhD in Speech and Performance Art from Southern Illinois University, and did his dissertation on the interactions of right brain/left brain as it relates to emotional cognition in performance. Wow. One of the smartest people we know!

Frank once coached our producer in high school speech competitions and relates a few stories about her performance piece and its reception at competitions. More here. Frank is retired now from his professorship at the College of DuPage in Wheaton, IL and spends much of his time supporting theater and film in and around the city of Chicago.

Gary does an Academy Awards recap by reviewing his picks along with those from Roscoe and Paul Stroili. Looks like Gary was the big winner with 6 out of 9 correct picks. Roscoe: 4. Paul: 3. Prize: $0.

Sally Field fares marginally well in reviews of The Glass Menagerie, but the production gets disappointing notices for its deconstructionist quality and unusual staging. We highlight the New York Daily News review as a representative example.

Frank and Gary romp through what's coming to the boards on Broadway and what's "in the works" for future seasons. Select upcoming openings: Come From Away, The Play That Goes Wrong, War Paint, The Little Foxes, Hello, Dolly! and A Doll's House Part 2(!). Scheduled for later - The Prince of Broadway; The Minutes by Tracy Letts; Bombshell, the Marilyn Monroe musical from Smash; The Cher Show; The Devil Wears Prada; Gypsy(again! this time starring Imelda Staunton); To Kill a Mockingbird (adapted by Aaron Sorkin); King Kong from Australia; and The Honeymooners starring Hank Azaria. Will all these come to fruition and make it on the Big White Way? Only time will tell.

We discuss the brilliant new film from Jordan Peele, Get Out, a semi-horror thriller with more than a few twists and turns. Both Frank and Gary like this picture immensely and try not to give too much away while discussing various scenes and plot points. There are elements of science fiction and some suspension of disbelief is required as the harrowing story hurtles its way forward. We encourage everyone to go see it! After you've seen it, read this excellent analysis in The Atlantic. Get Out was produced by friend of the show, Jason Blum. Congratulations, Jason and Blumhouse!

Pride Films and Plays, a new local producing organization whose mission is to change lives by creating diverse new work with LGBTQ+ characters or themes, has mounted a production of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert in a 99-seat theater with as many production elements as can be created in a small space. It features Chicago legend, Honey West!]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau56:36A Bolt of Lightning – Danni Smith, Musical Theatre Superstar – Episode 53https://booth-one.com/2017/03/bolt-lightning-danni-smith-musical-theatre-superstar-episode-53/
Mon, 06 Mar 2017 19:24:00 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2062Gary welcomes 4-time Jeff Award winner Danni Smith to the Booth this week, in a lively discussion of her career, growing up in Indiana, her recent lauded performances in Jesus Christ, Superstar, Man of La Mancha, and the currently-running Mamma Mia at the Marriott Lincolnshire Theatre. Gary and Roscoe first encountered Danni at the Theo Ubique, where she was just marvelous in the role of Mary Magdalene. Not only was she a highlight of the show, she was also our table server at the intimate space. Oh, what fine actors do to make it in this business! Danni treasures the time she spent doing five shows at Theo Ubique. The "bolt of lightning" description is a quote from a Broadway World rave review of her performance in Man of La Mancha.
Ever since playing a Munchkin in a grammar school performance of The Wizard of Oz, Danni has been smitten with the theatre. She attended Ball State University to study musical theatre. (Other Ball State alumni include David Letterman, Steadman Graham and John Schnatter, founder of Papa John's Pizza.) We chat about her inspirations, aspirations and dream roles. You can view a clip of Danni's performance in Mamma Mia here.
The latest news in our recurring watch of the world's elephant community is about the cold weather sweeping across northern India and threatening the health and well-being of these gentle mammals at the Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation and Care Center. Big-hearted local villagers have begun knitting giant sweaters to keep the pachyderms warm. These colorful new duds take about 4 weeks to create. But it's well worth the effort to keep these animals happy and comfortable, especially considering all the hardships they've been through. Click here to see great photos of the locals knitting with the elephants and some of the finished products. You can knit your own sweater and send it to them! Learn about other ways to help at http://wildlifesos.org/donate-2-2/.
About a year ago, Danni co-founded, with Artistic Director Harmony France, a new Chicago theatre company called Firebrand Theatre, the first "equity feminist musical theatre company" committed to employing and empowering women by expanding opportunities on and off the stage. The inaugural season includes 9 to 5 The Musical and Lizzie, a rock musical based on the true-life story of accused axe-murderess Lizzie Borden(!). Plus a kick-off benefit concert called Nothin' Like a Dame: A Celebration of Women in Musical Theatre. That February 27th performance featuring 28 singers was sold-out! Congratulations, Firebrand, and best of luck in your new exciting venture.
Gary gives a shout-out to the Goodman Theatre's production of Uncle Vanya, adapted by Annie Baker and directed by Artistic Director Robert Falls. This is one of the finest examples of ensemble acting we've seen in some time, and beautifully captures the humor and existential pathos of Chekhov's brilliant play.
Danni discusses her starring role in the independent feature Curtain, a horror thriller film from 2015, in which something sinister lurks behind the bathroom tiles in her shower, and things start to mysteriously disappear. Chaos ensues, of course. You can also view the trailer here.
In Episode 52, we wondered aloud whether Glenn Close might be awarded a second Tony for her performance in the new revival of Sunset Boulevard. Thank you to loyal listener Robbie Young for writing to let us know that one cannot win twice for the same role, even in different productions. Yul Brynner's 1985 Tony was awarded as a "special" honor and not specifically for his reprise as The King in The King and I. Perhaps the same situation will come up again at this year's ceremony.
Most of the photos of Danni you see in these notes were taken during a portrait session with genius photographer Joe Mazza at Brave Lux. Gary and Roscoe have done a photo session with him and he is definitely a creative force to be reckoned with.Gary welcomes 4-time Jeff Award winner Danni Smith to the Booth this week, in a lively discussion of her career, growing up in Indiana, her recent lauded performances in Jesus Christ, Superstar, Man of La Mancha, and the currently-running Mamma Mia at the Marriott Lincolnshire Theatre. Gary and Roscoe first encountered Danni at the Theo Ubique, where she was just marvelous in the role of Mary Magdalene. Not only was she a highlight of the show, she was also our table server at the intimate space. Oh, what fine actors do to make it in this business! Danni treasures the time she spent doing five shows at Theo Ubique. The “bolt of lightning” description is a quote from a Broadway World rave review of her performance in Man of La Mancha.

Ever since playing a Munchkin in a grammar school performance of The Wizard of Oz, Danni has been smitten with the theatre. She attended Ball State University to study musical theatre. (Other Ball State alumni include David Letterman, Steadman Graham and John Schnatter, founder of Papa John’s Pizza.) We chat about her inspirations, aspirations and dream roles. You can view a clip of Danni’s performance in Mamma Miahere.

The latest news in our recurring watch of the world’s elephant community is about the cold weather sweeping across northern India and threatening the health and well-being of these gentle mammals at the Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation and Care Center. Big-hearted local villagers have begun knitting giant sweaters to keep the pachyderms warm. These colorful new duds take about 4 weeks to create. But it’s well worth the effort to keep these animals happy and comfortable, especially considering all the hardships they’ve been through. Click hereto see great photos of the locals knitting with the elephants and some of the finished products. You can knit your own sweater and send it to them! Learn about other ways to help at http://wildlifesos.org/donate-2-2/.

About a year ago, Danni co-founded, with Artistic Director Harmony France, a new Chicago theatre company called Firebrand Theatre, the first “equity feminist musical theatre company” committed to employing and empowering women by expanding opportunities on and off the stage. The inaugural season includes 9 to 5 The Musical and Lizzie, a rock musical based on the true-life story of accused axe-murderess Lizzie Borden(!). Plus a kick-off benefit concert called Nothin’ Like a Dame: A Celebration of Women in Musical Theatre. That February 27th performance featuring 28 singers was sold-out! Congratulations, Firebrand, and best of luck in your new exciting venture.

Gary gives a shout-out to the Goodman Theatre’s production of Uncle Vanya, adapted by Annie Baker and directed by Artistic Director Robert Falls. This is one of the finest examples of ensemble acting we’ve seen in some time, and beautifully captures the humor and existential pathos of Chekhov’s brilliant play.

Danni discusses her starring role in the independent feature Curtain, a horror thriller film from 2015, in which something sinister lurks behind the bathroom tiles in her shower, and things start to mysteriously disappear. Chaos ensues, of course. You can also view the trailer here.

In Episode 52, we wondered aloud whether Glenn Close might be awarded a second Tony for her performance in the new revival of Sunset Boulevard. Thank you to loyal listener Robbie Young for writing to let us know that one cannot win twice for the same role, even in different productions. Yul Brynner‘s 1985 Tony was awarded as a “special” honor and not specifically for his reprise as The King in The King and I. Perhaps the same situation will come up again at this year’s ceremony.

Most of the photos of Danni you see in these notes were taken during a portrait session with genius photographer Joe Mazza at Brave Lux. Gary and Roscoe have done a photo session with him and he is definitely a creative force to be reckoned with. Joe has a way of making you feel as though you are the most important subject he’s ever photographed, thereby putting you at ease and in your best photogenic attitude. For your next photographic needs, whether for head shots, a wedding, special event or family portraits, Booth One highly recommends you get in touch with Joe at Brave Lux Studios.

We play a little Chat Pack with Danni and learn about her favorite entertainers, pet peeves and what aspirations she has outside of her life in the theater. As always, the answers are revealing, insightful and fascinating.

Kiss of Death:

Richard Schickel – Film Critic, Historian and Documentary Maker

Schickel estimated that he had seen 22,590 movies in a lifetime of sitting in the dark watching the play of light and shadow on the screen. He was a dedicated reviewer who saw great critical writing as “an elite enterprise, ideally undertaken by individuals who bring something to the party beyond their hasty, instinctive opinions.” Mr. Schickel pulled no punches in his criticism, once writing, “The truth, very simply, is that most movies are lousy, or at best, routine.” He contended that two measures of a movie’s quality should be how much a viewer retains and how much one wants to see it again. Born in Milwaukee in 1933, he was smitten with the movies from the age of 5 after seeing Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Mr. Schickel was 84. Read the full NYTimes obituary here.

]]>Gary welcomes 4-time Jeff Award winner Danni Smith to the Booth this week, in a lively discussion of her career, growing up in Indiana, her recent lauded performances in Jesus Christ, Superstar, Man of La Mancha,
Gary welcomes 4-time Jeff Award winner Danni Smith to the Booth this week, in a lively discussion of her career, growing up in Indiana, her recent lauded performances in Jesus Christ, Superstar, Man of La Mancha, and the currently-running Mamma Mia at the Marriott Lincolnshire Theatre. Gary and Roscoe first encountered Danni at the Theo Ubique, where she was just marvelous in the role of Mary Magdalene. Not only was she a highlight of the show, she was also our table server at the intimate space. Oh, what fine actors do to make it in this business! Danni treasures the time she spent doing five shows at Theo Ubique. The "bolt of lightning" description is a quote from a Broadway World rave review of her performance in Man of La Mancha.

Ever since playing a Munchkin in a grammar school performance of The Wizard of Oz, Danni has been smitten with the theatre. She attended Ball State University to study musical theatre. (Other Ball State alumni include David Letterman, Steadman Graham and John Schnatter, founder of Papa John's Pizza.) We chat about her inspirations, aspirations and dream roles. You can view a clip of Danni's performance in Mamma Mia here.

The latest news in our recurring watch of the world's elephant community is about the cold weather sweeping across northern India and threatening the health and well-being of these gentle mammals at the Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation and Care Center. Big-hearted local villagers have begun knitting giant sweaters to keep the pachyderms warm. These colorful new duds take about 4 weeks to create. But it's well worth the effort to keep these animals happy and comfortable, especially considering all the hardships they've been through. Click here to see great photos of the locals knitting with the elephants and some of the finished products. You can knit your own sweater and send it to them! Learn about other ways to help at http://wildlifesos.org/donate-2-2/.

About a year ago, Danni co-founded, with Artistic Director Harmony France, a new Chicago theatre company called Firebrand Theatre, the first "equity feminist musical theatre company" committed to employing and empowering women by expanding opportunities on and off the stage. The inaugural season includes 9 to 5 The Musical and Lizzie, a rock musical based on the true-life story of accused axe-murderess Lizzie Borden(!). Plus a kick-off benefit concert called Nothin' Like a Dame: A Celebration of Women in Musical Theatre. That February 27th performance featuring 28 singers was sold-out! Congratulations, Firebrand, and best of luck in your new exciting venture.

Gary gives a shout-out to the Goodman Theatre's production of Uncle Vanya,]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau56:14When More is Truly More – Episode 52https://booth-one.com/2017/02/truly-episode-52/
Mon, 20 Feb 2017 01:07:03 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=2023Booth One continues its string of lively guest co-host episodes with our good friend Paul Stroili, actor, writer, director and filmmaker, sitting in the hot seat for still-recuperating Roscoe. Who has, by the way, rented a Barca Lounger to watch movies from for his convalescence. We're going to need a photo of that. Frequent Booth One listeners will remember that Paul has appeared on past episodes, talking about his long-running hit production of Tony n' Tina's Wedding and just being his hilarious, Booth One type entertaining self. He's working on writing a sequel to that outstanding piece of audience interactive theater. We can't wait!
Gary and Paul take a look at the current Broadway season, highlighting Glenn Close as Norma Desmond in the new revival of Sunset Boulevard. The NY Times says that her reinvented performance after 22 years "may well guarantee its status as one of the great stage performances of this century." And "one of those rare instances where more is truly more." An actor cannot win a Tony for the same role, even in different productions. Yul Brynner was given an honorary Tony when he appeared in a revival of The King and I. Could there be a "special" Tony Award in the offing for Close? Read the full review here.
We also discuss the upcoming revival of Lillian Hellman's The Little Foxes, featuring Laura Linney and Cynthia Nixon in the roles of Regina and Birdie, directed by Daniel Sullivan at the Manhattan Theatre Club. Here's the catch - the actresses will alternate parts at select performances! Now that's something worth seeing in back-to-back seatings. We'll eagerly await the notices when this show opens in mid-April. And hope to see it ourselves. A fun fact: The title of the play was suggested by Dorothy Parker.
One of our favorite theater reviewers, Charles Isherwood, is leaving his post at the New York Times for points unknown. Isherwood not only reviewed Broadway and off-Broadway fare, but he was a frequent viewer and critic of Chicago and other regional theater productions. Booth One has always enjoyed his insight and candor. There's a wonderful opportunity here for the up-and-coming new generation of cultural art critics. If you or a loved one are interested in pursuing this position, American Theatre has published the full job description. See how many of the requirements you qualified for. Who knows? We might be quoting from your review some day on Booth One!
It's that time of year again....OSCAR time! Gary and Paul handicap their favorites in the major categories alongside picks received from Roscoe! Will La La Land make a sweep? Or is Hidden Figures the dark horse for best picture? Natalie Portman, Emma Stone or Meryl Streep as Best Actress? Denzel or Casey? What to say about Mahershala Ali in Moonlight! Play along with the guys by downloading your own Oscar ballot here.
Judy Garland no longer rests in New York State. Her remains were recently exhumed and transferred to Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles, ostensibly to be nearer her three living children. Now residing near the burial grounds of Cecil B. DeMille and Mickey Rooney, Judy's coffin is at rest in the Land of Angels. "City of stars, are you shining just for me?" Paul tells of his experiences watching films projected on the side of Douglas Fairbank's memorial in Forever Cemetery. Perhaps one day soon they will screen The Wizard of Oz in tribute to a great lady.
A final tidbit of information for our listeners - check out Ryan Murphy's newest series, Feud: Bette and Joan upcoming on Sundays to FX. This latest FX anthology will no doubt thrust stars Jessica Lange and Susan Sarandon, who play Joan Crawford and Bette Davis, respectively, into awards conversations for next year.
Kiss of Death
David Shepard - Film Preservationist
Shepard began accumulating old films at age 12, buying them reel by reel with money he earned from his paper route. Over the years,Booth One continues its string of lively guest co-host episodes with our good friend Paul Stroili, actor, writer, director and filmmaker, sitting in the hot seat for still-recuperating Roscoe. Who has, by the way, rented a Barca Lounger to watch movies from for his convalescence. We’re going to need a photo of that. Frequent Booth One listeners will remember that Paul has appeared on past episodes, talking about his long-running hit production of Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding and just being his hilarious, Booth One type entertaining self. He’s working on writing a sequel to that outstanding piece of audience interactive theater. We can’t wait!

Gary and Paul take a look at the current Broadway season, highlighting Glenn Close as Norma Desmond in the new revival of Sunset Boulevard. The NY Times says that her reinvented performance after 22 years “may well guarantee its status as one of the great stage performances of this century.” And “one of those rare instances where more is truly more.” An actor cannot win a Tony for the same role, even in different productions. Yul Brynner was given an honorary Tony when he appeared in a revival of The King and I. Could there be a “special” Tony Award in the offing for Close? Read the full review here.

We also discuss the upcoming revival of Lillian Hellman‘s The Little Foxes, featuring Laura Linney and Cynthia Nixon in the roles of Regina and Birdie, directed by Daniel Sullivan at the Manhattan Theatre Club. Here’s the catch – the actresses will alternate parts at select performances! Now that’s something worth seeing in back-to-back seatings. We’ll eagerly await the notices when this show opens in mid-April. And hope to see it ourselves. A fun fact: The title of the play was suggested by Dorothy Parker.

One of our favorite theater reviewers, Charles Isherwood, is leaving his post at the New York Times for points unknown. Isherwood not only reviewed Broadway and off-Broadway fare, but he was a frequent viewer and critic of Chicago and other regional theater productions. Booth One has always enjoyed his insight and candor. There’s a wonderful opportunity here for the up-and-coming new generation of cultural art critics. If you or a loved one are interested in pursuing this position, American Theatre has published the full job description. See how many of the requirements you qualified for. Who knows? We might be quoting from your review some day on Booth One!
It’s that time of year again….OSCAR time! Gary and Paul handicap their favorites in the major categories alongside picks received from Roscoe! Will La La Land make a sweep? Or is Hidden Figures the dark horse for best picture? Natalie Portman, Emma Stone or Meryl Streep as Best Actress? Denzel or Casey? What to say about Mahershala Aliin Moonlight! Play along with the guys by downloading your own Oscar ballot here.

Judy Garland no longer rests in New York State. Her remains were recently exhumed and transferred to Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles, ostensibly to be nearer her three living children. Now residing near the burial grounds of Cecil B. DeMille and Mickey Rooney, Judy’s coffin is at rest in the Land of Angels. “City of stars, are you shining just for me?”Paul tells of his experiences watching films projected on the side of Douglas Fairbank’s memorial in Forever Cemetery. Perhaps one day soon they will screen The Wizard of Oz in tribute to a great lady.

A final tidbit of information for our listeners – check out Ryan Murphy‘s newest series, Feud: Bette and Joan upcoming on Sundays to FX. This latest FX anthology will no doubt thrust stars Jessica Lange and Susan Sarandon, who play Joan Crawford and Bette Davis, respectively, into awards conversations for next year.

Shepard began accumulating old films at age 12, buying them reel by reel with money he earned from his paper route. Over the years, he restored or made available many of the silent films found in DVD and video libraries. As television hit the film rental industry hard in the mid-1950s, Shepard was able to relieve many of them of their stock films for as little as $1 a reel. He is credited with rescuing the 12 shorts that Charlie Chaplin made for the Mutual Film Corporation in 1916 and 1917; Murnau’s 1925 masterpiece Sunrise; and all of Buster Keaton‘s independent films from the 1920s. He even commissioned new musical scores for a number of films. Many of his greatest finds came through serendipity and a knack for looking in the right place at the right time. Mr. Shepard was 76.

]]>Booth One continues its string of lively guest co-host episodes with our good friend Paul Stroili, actor, writer, director and filmmaker, sitting in the hot seat for still-recuperating Roscoe. Who has, by the way,Barca Lounger to watch movies from for his convalescence. We're going to need a photo of that. Frequent Booth One listeners will remember that Paul has appeared on past episodes, talking about his long-running hit production of Tony n' Tina's Wedding and just being his hilarious, Booth One type entertaining self. He's working on writing a sequel to that outstanding piece of audience interactive theater. We can't wait!

Gary and Paul take a look at the current Broadway season, highlighting Glenn Close as Norma Desmond in the new revival of Sunset Boulevard. The NY Times says that her reinvented performance after 22 years "may well guarantee its status as one of the great stage performances of this century." And "one of those rare instances where more is truly more." An actor cannot win a Tony for the same role, even in different productions. Yul Brynner was given an honorary Tony when he appeared in a revival of The King and I. Could there be a "special" Tony Award in the offing for Close? Read the full review here.

We also discuss the upcoming revival of Lillian Hellman's The Little Foxes, featuring Laura Linney and Cynthia Nixon in the roles of Regina and Birdie, directed by Daniel Sullivan at the Manhattan Theatre Club. Here's the catch - the actresses will alternate parts at select performances! Now that's something worth seeing in back-to-back seatings. We'll eagerly await the notices when this show opens in mid-April. And hope to see it ourselves. A fun fact: The title of the play was suggested by Dorothy Parker.

One of our favorite theater reviewers, Charles Isherwood, is leaving his post at the New York Times for points unknown. Isherwood not only reviewed Broadway and off-Broadway fare, but he was a frequent viewer and critic of Chicago and other regional theater productions. Booth One has always enjoyed his insight and candor. There's a wonderful opportunity here for the up-and-coming new generation of cultural art critics. If you or a loved one are interested in pursuing this position, American Theatre has published the full job description. See how many of the requirements you qualified for. Who knows? We might be quoting from your review some day on Booth One!

Sean began his theatrical life in Boston. After school, he chose Chicago as the place to lay down his creative roots. Sean has received wide recognition for his vibrant and forceful productions of Gilbert & Sullivan’sThe Mikado, Pirates of Penzance and HMS Pinafore, and his ground-breaking All Our Tragic, a tour de force adaptation of the 32 extant Greek tragedies, performed in one 12-hour cycle (with meal breaks, of course!). Gary asks Sean about his approach to running a theater company, the nature of collaboration, and his style of working to adapt classic pieces of the theater canon.

We also discuss the recent developments within The Hypocrites that have led Sean to cease current operations and to reorganize the company under a different business model. It’s fascinating conversation and a must-listen for anyone who is considering starting a theater company or is struggling to remain viable in this rapidly changing cultural environment. Sean reveals what he’s working on now and how this new show – related to All Our Tragic – will be developed and work-shopped in several environments. Cannot wait…

Along the way, Gary mentions another long-running operation that has recently announced it is ceasing its presentations – Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus, The Greatest Show on Earth. Declining attendance and low ticket sales, attributed in part to the removal of the elephant acts from the show, have led the Feld Corporation to pull up the tent stakes and call it a day, after 146 years of bringing live circus entertainment to millions of young and old alike. Grateful to have seen the show this past November and will always have fond memories of watching the childrens’ delight at the spectacle.

Gary relates his experience seeing the documentary film, “The Best Worst Thing That Ever Could Have Happened,” an account of the making of, and untimely demise of, the Sondheim/Prince musical Merrily We Roll Along. This fine film from director Lonny Price is a treasure trove of original production footage, audition tapes, and interviews with all the leading participants, including original cast members and Sondheim himself. It’s not in wide release so you’ll have to seek out your favorite art house or local film forum. But it is well worth the effort. A must-see for all theatre fans or musical geeks – like us!

Finally, Sean and Gary discuss the recent benefit performance of their award-winning production of Our Town, directed by and featuring David Cromer, in a staged reading at the Steppenwolf Theatre. It was an emotional evening, and the Chicago theater community was out in force to show their affection and solidarity for a struggling company of brothers and sisters. To support The Hypocrites in their reorganization, or to donate to their mission of presenting challenging and engaging theater, go to www.the-hypocrites.com or click here to get to their donate page.

Kiss of Death

Roberta Peters – Coloratura Soprano With a Dramatic Entrance
Ms. Peters was possessed of a light, fleet instrument and a prudent awareness of what her voice could and could not do. In 1951, she was thrust into the limelight as a last minute replacement for an ailing soprano in the Metropolitan Opera’s production of “Don Giovanni”. Like her contemporary Patrice Munsel (previously profiled in Episode 42), Ms. Peters came of age during the Golden Age of television, and became familiar to audiences around the world through her many guest appearances on “The Mike Douglas Show” and “The Ed Sullivan Show” in the 1950s and ’60s, and a score of other TV guest starring roles. Ms. Peters was 86. Read Margalit Fox’s NYT Obit here.

]]>Our special guest in the Booth this week is Sean Graney, the highly acclaimed Artistic Director of one of our favorite Chicago off-Loop theater companies, The Hypocrites. While Roscoe continues to recover from his health condition,Sean Graney, the highly acclaimed Artistic Director of one of our favorite Chicago off-Loop theater companies, The Hypocrites. While Roscoe continues to recover from his health condition, Gary goes one-on-one with Sean in a lively and informative discussion of Graney's background, his founding of The Hypocrites 20 years ago, his experiences with acting, playwriting, adapting and directing, and a host of other theatre-related topics.

Sean began his theatrical life in Boston. After school, he chose Chicago as the place to lay down his creative roots. Sean has received wide recognition for his vibrant and forceful productions of Gilbert & Sullivan's The Mikado, Pirates of Penzance and HMS Pinafore, and his ground-breaking All Our Tragic, a tour de force adaptation of the 32 extant Greek tragedies, performed in one 12-hour cycle (with meal breaks, of course!). Gary asks Sean about his approach to running a theater company, the nature of collaboration, and his style of working to adapt classic pieces of the theater canon.

We also discuss the recent developments within The Hypocrites that have led Sean to cease current operations and to reorganize the company under a different business model. It's fascinating conversation and a must-listen for anyone who is considering starting a theater company or is struggling to remain viable in this rapidly changing cultural environment. Sean reveals what he's working on now and how this new show - related to All Our Tragic - will be developed and work-shopped in several environments. Cannot wait...

Along the way, Gary mentions another long-running operation that has recently announced it is ceasing its presentations - Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus, The Greatest Show on Earth. Declining attendance and low ticket sales, attributed in part to the removal of the elephant acts from the show, have led the Feld Corporation to pull up the tent stakes and call it a day, after 146 years of bringing live circus entertainment to millions of young and old alike. Grateful to have seen the show this past November and will always have fond memories of watching the childrens' delight at the spectacle.

Gary relates his experience seeing the documentary film, "The Best Worst Thing That Ever Could Have Happened," an account of the making of, and untimely demise of, the Sondheim/Prince musical Merrily We Roll Along. This fine film from director Lonny Price is a treasure trove of original production footage, audition tapes, and interviews with all the leading participants, including original cast members and Sondheim himself. It's not in wide release so you'll have to seek out your favorite art house or local film forum. But it is well worth the effort. A must-see for all theatre fans or musical geeks - like us!

Finally, Sean and Gary discuss the recent benefit performance of their award-winning production of Our Town, directed by and featuring David Cromer, in a staged reading at the Steppenwolf Theatre. It was an emotional evening, and the Chicago theater community was out in force to show their affection and solidarity for a struggling company of brothers and sisters. To support The Hypocrites in their reorganization,]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau59:50Introducing South Side Correspondent, Jim Reho – Episode 50https://booth-one.com/2017/01/introducing-south-side-correspondent-jim-reho-episode-50/
Mon, 16 Jan 2017 02:53:13 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1967We celebrate Booth One's 50th! episode with guest co-host, Jim Reho. For the past several years, Jim has resided in the Brighton Park neighborhood on the South Side and joins us to give a great tour. Learn more facts about Chicago's South Side.
Jim reports on some of the highlights in his part of Chicago. For starters, check out some of the best thin crust pizza anywhere at Vito & Nick's, 84th & Pulaski. They have been around for 90 years!
Another Reho favorite is a place that serves Korean/Polish cuisine. We are planning a "Roscoe at Large" visit to check out this great concept at Kimski! Read a 4 star review here.
For excellent musical programming in a beautiful setting, hear a concert at Thalia Hall. Built in the 1890's as a replica of the Prague Opera House, it was one of the most ornate theaters of its time. Located in the Pilsen neighborhood, it has wonderful acoustics and you can even rent part of the balcony. Talk about Booth One! Check out the fascinating history. We are planning to see a show there and will report back.
Between Christmas and New Years was the highest grossing week in Broadway history. 359,495 people saw a Broadway show that week. Jim talks about his favorite classic American musicals, including Carousel, a Booth One favorite. Listening to the original cast album the other night, Jim says there are 4 indelible songs he can list off the top of his head. He asks Gary if there are any songs in Hamilton that will live throughout history. Gary's response is there are probably half a dozen. Jim reveals that while he majored in English, his undergraduate minor was in - get this, the History of the American Musical Theatre!
Gary reports on his trip to Writers Theatre to see East Texas Hot Links and says, "You will not see better acting anywhere...It is a powerful, bold and troubling statement. I couldn't recommend it more highly." Read one of the many rave reviews here. This Pulitzer Prize finalist was written by Eugene Lee and directed splendidly by Ron OJ Parson. Speaking of Ron, he's directed a production of Blues for An Alabama Sky, running now at the Court Theatre in Hyde Park. We are looking forward to a featuring the marvelous Court Theatre on an upcoming episode.
Gary talks about the Kennedy Center Honors, which featured a stunning tribute to Mavis Staples by Bonnie Raitt and Andra Day, backed by a gospel choir. Read details here. And watch President Obama's introduction here. Jim and Gary discuss Bonnie Raitt's lovely relationship with her father, John, who was the original Billy Bigalow in Carousel in 1945! See John and Bonnie sing a gorgeous duet of Hey There with the Boston Pops when he was 85.
Another highlight of our winter theater season on Booth One was seeing The Christians at Steppenwolf. Gary and Jim talk about the fascinating questions the show raises about faith, death and forgiveness. Again, with crazy good acting - across the board! Chris Jones' review for the Chicago Tribune gives you a great sense of the play. Try to see it in person. Unforgettable! Gary calls for a sequel.
Kiss of Death:
Learn about Sister Francis Ann Carr, a powerful member of the Shaker community. Read full obituary.
From the Times Union obit, "The Shakers are a Christian religious group founded in 18th century in England. They practice a celibate and communal lifestyle, pacifism, and their model of equality of the sexes, which they institutionalized in their society in the 1780s, the group's website explains...They are also known for their simple living, architecture, and furniture."
The Shakers offered homes to children or families who had nowhere else to go. Sister Francis was one of the last three practicing Shakers in her communal village.We celebrate Booth One’s 50th! episode with guest co-host, Jim Reho. For the past several years, Jim has resided in the Brighton Park neighborhood on the South Side and joins us to give a great tour. Learn more facts about Chicago’s South Side.

Jim reports on some of the highlights in his part of Chicago. For starters, check out some of the best thin crust pizza anywhere at Vito & Nick’s, 84th & Pulaski. They have been around for 90 years!

Another Reho favorite is a place that serves Korean/Polish cuisine. We are planning a “Roscoe at Large” visit to check out this great concept at Kimski! Read a 4 star review here.

For excellent musical programming in a beautiful setting, hear a concert at Thalia Hall. Built in the 1890’s as a replica of the Prague Opera House, it was one of the most ornate theaters of its time. Located in the Pilsen neighborhood, it has wonderful acoustics and you can even rent part of the balcony. Talk about Booth One! Check out the fascinating history. We are planning to see a show there and will report back.

Between Christmas and New Years was the highest grossing week in Broadway history. 359,495 people saw a Broadway show that week. Jim talks about his favorite classic American musicals, including Carousel, a Booth One favorite. Listening to the original cast album the other night, Jim says there are 4 indelible songs he can list off the top of his head. He asks Gary if there are any songs in Hamilton that will live throughout history. Gary’s response is there are probably half a dozen. Jim reveals that while he majored in English, his undergraduate minor was in – get this, the History of the American Musical Theatre!

Gary reports on his trip to Writers Theatre to see East Texas Hot Linksand says, “You will not see better acting anywhere…It is a powerful, bold and troubling statement. I couldn’t recommend it more highly.” Read one of the many rave reviews here. This Pulitzer Prize finalist was written by Eugene Lee and directed splendidly by Ron OJ Parson. Speaking of Ron, he’s directed a production of Blues for An Alabama Sky, running now at the Court Theatre in Hyde Park. We are looking forward to a featuring the marvelous Court Theatre on an upcoming episode.

Gary talks about the Kennedy Center Honors, which featured a stunning tribute to Mavis Staples by Bonnie Raitt and Andra Day, backed by a gospel choir. Read details here. And watch President Obama’s introduction here. Jim and Gary discuss Bonnie Raitt’s lovely relationship with her father, John, who was the original Billy Bigalow in Carousel in 1945! See John and Bonnie sing a gorgeous duet of Hey There with the Boston Pops when he was 85.

Another highlight of our winter theater season on Booth One was seeing The Christiansat Steppenwolf. Gary and Jim talk about the fascinating questions the show raises about faith, death and forgiveness. Again, with crazy good acting – across the board! Chris Jones’ review for the Chicago Tribune gives you a great sense of the play. Try to see it in person. Unforgettable! Gary calls for a sequel.

Kiss of Death:

Learn about Sister Francis Ann Carr, a powerful member of the Shaker community. Read full obituary.

From the Times Union obit, “The Shakers are a Christian religious group founded in 18th century in England. They practice a celibate and communal lifestyle, pacifism, and their model of equality of the sexes, which they institutionalized in their society in the 1780s, the group’s website explains…They are also known for their simple living, architecture, and furniture.”

The Shakers offered homes to children or families who had nowhere else to go. Sister Francis was one of the last three practicing Shakers in her communal village.

]]>We celebrate Booth One's 50th! episode with guest co-host, Jim Reho. For the past several years, Jim has resided in the Brighton Park neighborhood on the South Side and joins us to give a great tour. Learn more facts about Chicago's South Side. Chicago's South Side.

Jim reports on some of the highlights in his part of Chicago. For starters, check out some of the best thin crust pizza anywhere at Vito & Nick's, 84th & Pulaski. They have been around for 90 years!

Another Reho favorite is a place that serves Korean/Polish cuisine. We are planning a "Roscoe at Large" visit to check out this great concept at Kimski! Read a 4 star review here.

For excellent musical programming in a beautiful setting, hear a concert at Thalia Hall. Built in the 1890's as a replica of the Prague Opera House, it was one of the most ornate theaters of its time. Located in the Pilsen neighborhood, it has wonderful acoustics and you can even rent part of the balcony. Talk about Booth One! Check out the fascinating history. We are planning to see a show there and will report back.

Between Christmas and New Years was the highest grossing week in Broadway history. 359,495 people saw a Broadway show that week. Jim talks about his favorite classic American musicals, including Carousel, a Booth One favorite. Listening to the original cast album the other night, Jim says there are 4 indelible songs he can list off the top of his head. He asks Gary if there are any songs in Hamilton that will live throughout history. Gary's response is there are probably half a dozen. Jim reveals that while he majored in English, his undergraduate minor was in - get this, the History of the American Musical Theatre!

Gary reports on his trip to Writers Theatre to see East Texas Hot Links and says, "You will not see better acting anywhere...It is a powerful, bold and troubling statement. I couldn't recommend it more highly." Read one of the many rave reviews here. This Pulitzer Prize finalist was written by Eugene Lee and directed splendidly by Ron OJ Parson. Speaking of Ron, he's directed a production of Blues for An Alabama Sky, running now at the Court Theatre in Hyde Park. We are looking forward to a featuring the marvelous Court Theatre on an upcoming episode.

Gary talks about the Kennedy Center Honors, which featured a stunning tribute to Mavis Staples by Bonnie Raitt and Andra Day, backed by a gospel choir. Read details here. And watch President Obama's introduction here. Jim and Gary discuss Bonnie Raitt's lovely relationship with her father, John, who was the original Billy Bigalow in Carousel in 1945! See John and Bonnie sing a gorgeous duet of Hey There with the Boston Pops when he was 85.

Our first year-end list is President Obama’s final Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients:

Alphabetically, they are Kareem Abdul-Jabaar, Ellen DeGeneres, Robert DeNiro, Bill and Melinda Gates, Frank Gehry, Tom Hanks, Michael Jordan, Maya Lin, Lorne Michaels, Newton Minow, Robert Redford, Diana Ross, Vin Scully, Bruce Springsteen, and Cicely Tyson. A special note is made about Newt Minow, close friend of our producer and a Chicago native, who famously referred to television as a “vast wasteland”.

Audra McDonald‘s pregnancy was a surprise. But was it an accident, an illness or neither? We discuss the lawsuit brought by the producers of the marvelous Shuffle Along, Or the Making of the Musical Sensation of 1921 and All That Followedagainst Lloyds of London, claiming damages of more than $12 million. Ms. McDonald’s absence from the show for maternity leave prompted not only the show’s early closing, but earlier health issues forced her to miss some preview performances. Ms. McDonald, who has won six Tony awards, was the show’s biggest star. Lloyd’s has denied the claims, arguing that the pregnancy “and the associated medical conditions were neither an ‘accident’ nor an ‘illness’,” criteria cited in the original $14 million insurance policy. Stand by for more on this unprecedented story…

Pray. Eat raw eggs. Stay single. Those are the keys to a long life, according to Emma Morano, the world’s oldest person. Emma celebrated her 117th birthday this week, and is a national treasure in her native Italy, where her birthday celebration was broadcast on live state television. After the party, Morano took a well-deserved nap. God Bless, Emma.

Our next list is of Golden Globe Award nominees, as Gary puts Roscoe in the hot seat for predicting the winners of the January 8 ceremony. His picks: Manchester By the Sea and La La Land for Best Motion Pictures; Denzel, Natalie Portman, Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling in the Best Acting categories.

Continuing our movie musical theme, Gary tells about a new Marc Platt project based on the book “Everything’s Coming Up Profits: The Golden Age of Industrial Musicals”.The source book focuses on corporate musicals made by the hundreds from the 1950s to the early 1980s by companies like Coca-Cola, Westinghouse and Chevrolet. Mostly played at business meetings and conventions, they were created by the top writing talent of the day, including Kander and Ebb. This original movie musical, featuring Kristen Wiig and Will Farrell, will have a score by Marc Shaiman and Scott Whitman of Harispray and Smash fame.

Back to our lists – the Library of Congress as announced 25 new films added to the National Film Registry, recognized in the National Film Preservation Board‘s view as “culturally, historically and aesthetically significant.” The list includes:Ball of Fire (1941)The Birds (1963)Blackboard Jungle (1955)The Breakfast Club (1985)East of Eden (1955)Funny Girl (1968)The Lion King (1994)Lost Horizon (1937)The Princess Bride (1987)Steamboat Bill, Jr. (1928)Thelma & Louise (1991)20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1916)Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)

A clarification from our previous episode regarding the recent viewing of the play I Am My Own Wifeat About Face Theatre – transgender actress Delia Kropp first brought the idea of having this trans story told by a transgender artist, and by playing only Charlotte there would be no need for that actor to step back and forth over the gender line. They approached playwright Doug Wright with the idea of using other actors for the variety of other roles in the show. He agreed, providing that no lines would be cut, altered or added. So the performance we witnessed was the complete and unadulterated original one-person show script expanded to include 3 additional actors. And by our account, it worked brilliantly. A unique concept deftly executed and beautifully acted. Many kudos to our friend Delia.

Our final stage viewing of the year was The Weir, produced by the Irish Theatre of Chicago at the Den Theatre. This beautifully written and performed mood piece is haunting, suspenseful and heart breaking, and features a stellar cast of Dan Waller, Sarah Wellington, Bradley Grant Smith, Jeff Christian and a remarkable portrayal by Brad Armacost. This fine play runs through January 22, 2017 and should not be missed by anyone who cares about the art of acting and the magic of words. Read a review here. (I have directed Dan Waller and he is an absolute joy to work with.)

Kiss of Death:
We look back at some of those we’ve lost in 2016, astonished by the broad spectrum of celebrities, luminaries and artists who passed this way only too briefly. Natalie Cole, Merle Haggard, David Bowie, Prince, Alan Rickman, Glenn Frey, Edward Albee, Umberto Eco, Nancy Reagan, Garry Shandling, Patty Duke, Muhammed Ali, Morley Safer, Gene Wilder, George Michael, Garry Marshall, Florence Henderson and Alan Thicke. And the year was not yet over when we recorded. Our KOD focuses on another recently passed celebrity:

Zsa Zsa Gabor, the Hungarian actress whose self-parodying glamour and revolving-door marriages to millionaires put a luster of American celebrity on a long but only modestly successful career in movies and television. “A girl must marry for love and keep on marrying until she finds it,” Ms. Gabor once said. The second of three daughters – Magda and Eva her sisters – Zsa Zsa was raised for stardom in her native Budapest. She appeared in Moulin Rouge in 1952 and Lili in 1953, and played the gold-digging Minerva on the 1960s Batman series, whose mineral spa fleeced swells by extracting secrets from their brains. “Zsa Zsa’s Complete Guide to Men” in 1969 was a best-seller. Ms. Gabor was 99. Read full L.A. Times obituary here.

]]>Gary and Roscoe wrap up 2016 - and good riddance to a challenging year - with an episode of year-end theater going and a few fun lists. - First we revisit Hamilton and our recent viewing of the new Chicago production.
First we revisit Hamilton and our recent viewing of the new Chicago production. From our Booth One perspective in the 11th row at the PrivateBank Theatre, this sit-down company is hands down as dynamic, entertaining and exciting as the Broadway show we saw in New York in May. It's not just a traveling road company - the show's creators have put together a virtual replica of the Broadway smash and re-produced one of the great theatrical experiences of a lifetime. Yes, ticket prices are steep and seats are hard to come by, but it's worth every penny and effort to get into this show. Take the time to play the lottery. 'Nuf said....

Our first year-end list is President Obama's final Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients:

Alphabetically, they are Kareem Abdul-Jabaar, Ellen DeGeneres, Robert DeNiro, Bill and Melinda Gates, Frank Gehry, Tom Hanks, Michael Jordan, Maya Lin, Lorne Michaels, Newton Minow, Robert Redford, Diana Ross, Vin Scully, Bruce Springsteen, and Cicely Tyson. A special note is made about Newt Minow, close friend of our producer and a Chicago native, who famously referred to television as a "vast wasteland".

Audra McDonald's pregnancy was a surprise. But was it an accident, an illness or neither? We discuss the lawsuit brought by the producers of the marvelous Shuffle Along, Or the Making of the Musical Sensation of 1921 and All That Followed against Lloyds of London, claiming damages of more than $12 million. Ms. McDonald's absence from the show for maternity leave prompted not only the show's early closing, but earlier health issues forced her to miss some preview performances. Ms. McDonald, who has won six Tony awards, was the show's biggest star. Lloyd's has denied the claims, arguing that the pregnancy "and the associated medical conditions were neither an 'accident' nor an 'illness'," criteria cited in the original $14 million insurance policy. Stand by for more on this unprecedented story...

Pray. Eat raw eggs. Stay single. Those are the keys to a long life, according to Emma Morano, the world's oldest person. Emma celebrated her 117th birthday this week, and is a national treasure in her native Italy, where her birthday celebration was broadcast on live state television. After the party, Morano took a well-deserved nap. God Bless, Emma.

Our next list is of Golden Globe Award nominees, as Gary puts Roscoe in the hot seat for predicting the winners of the January 8 ceremony. His picks: Manchester By the Sea and La La Land for Best Motion Pictures; Denzel, Natalie Portman, Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling in the Best Acting categories.

Continuing our movie musical theme, Gary tells about a new Marc Platt project based on the book "Everything's Coming Up Profits: The Golden Age of Industrial Musicals".The source book focuses on corporate musicals made by the hundreds from the 1950s to the early 1980s by companies like Coca-Cola, Westinghouse and Chevrolet.]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau56:46Almost Famous – Episode 48https://booth-one.com/2016/12/almost-famous-episode-48/
Mon, 12 Dec 2016 04:52:13 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1902Roscoe and Gary feel on the cusp of stardom and celebrity as they record Episode 48 in time for the holidays. Basking in the great feedback and listener response to our Charna Halpern interview on the last episode, the boys dream of Booth One seating at the great establishments of the world, particularly the Old Ebbett Grill in Washington, DC, where the shellfish is always fresh and the oysters are always briny and cold.
We announce the winner of our Hamilton ticket raffle - that lucky someone who will accompany Gary and Roscoe to the Chicago production on Dec. 4. And the winner is......Fran Bernstein, long-time friend and fan of the show! Congratulations, Fran. We'll see you at the PrivateBank Theatre on the aisle! And don't forget we have the VIP Experience before curtain and at intermission. How Booth One of us....
Gary and Roscoe take a tour of the current Broadway season, noting that the aforementioned Hamilton grossed $3.3M last week, the most money ever made in a single week by a Broadway show. Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 also cleared the $1M mark (much to Roscoe's consternation), joining the ranks of The Lion King, Wicked and Aladdin. Another new Broadway show, Heisenberg, prompts Roscoe to share one of his great unpleasant theater-going experiences of all time. Hint: It involves a faulty hearing device and a Wednesday matinee crowd. And tickets for Sally Field in The Glass Menagerie appear to be selling briskly for a March opening. Lost footage of a filmed version of this play from the 1960's starring Shirley Booth of Hazel fame and Hal Holbrook will be aired on Turner Classic Movies during December.
Gary went to the circus again. For the first time in 134 years without elephants. But it's still an experience not to be missed. Booth One tip: Sit as close as you can without being in the front row. It's worth it for the smell of the greasepaint and the roar of the crowd. As well as the snarling of the lions and tigers. Here's an image of Gary in his souvenir pachyderm hat!
On a related note, Elephant Polo will now be disbanded in Nepal in the continuing and important efforts for elephant conservation and welfare. Though widely known for it's humane treatment of the animals since 1982, a spokesperson for the International Elephant Polo Championships said, "We've always been ahead of the game in the way we treat our elephants, but we prefer our elephants to remain as elephants, and elephant polo is hardly that." Live long and prosper, you great giants of the jungle.
It's been a stellar season for great movies, but we rue the fact that many of the smaller films come and go so quickly in Chicago to make room for the holiday blockbusters. Some films we wish stayed around longer so we could see them are Moonlight, Loving, Birth of a Nation and Inferno. Roscoe mourns for Warren Beatty and his new film Rules Don't Apply, which received mixed notices but can only be seen at 10:00am at one theater in the city. And has per screen grosses in only the hundreds of dollars. Sad.
It's A Wonderful Life has always been one of Gary's favorite films, and this holiday season he visited the Live in Chicago version presented by American Blues Theatre. It's a clever, well-produced, and highly entertaining piece of theatre, and Gary recommends it as a perennial must-see. To give our listeners a flavor of the presentation and the high quality of the actors involved, we've inserted a few excerpts from the production, courtesy of the American Blues Theatre publicist and friend of the show, Cathy Taylor. You'll hear George Bailey, Bert & Ernie, Mary Bailey, Mr. Potter, and the unique talents of a great Foley artist. If this doesn't put you in the holiday spirit, we don't know what will.
Another installment of Remembering Roscoe highlights the life of Howard Johnson, graduate of Monticello High School in 1912. A true story of triumph of the human spirit. Inspiring, moving, and a story worth remembering.Roscoe and Gary feel on the cusp of stardom and celebrity as they record Episode 48 in time for the holidays. Basking in the great feedback and listener response to our Charna Halpern interview on the last episode, the boys dream of Booth One seating at the great establishments of the world, particularly the Old Ebbett Grill in Washington, DC, where the shellfish is always fresh and the oysters are always briny and cold.

We announce the winner of our Hamilton ticket raffle – that lucky someone who will accompany Gary and Roscoe to the Chicago production on Dec. 4. And the winner is……Fran Bernstein, long-time friend and fan of the show! Congratulations, Fran. We’ll see you at the PrivateBank Theatre on the aisle! And don’t forget we have the VIP Experience before curtain and at intermission. How Booth One of us….

Gary and Roscoe take a tour of the current Broadway season, noting that the aforementioned Hamilton grossed $3.3M last week, the most money ever made in a single week by a Broadway show. Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 also cleared the $1M mark (much to Roscoe’s consternation), joining the ranks ofThe Lion King, Wicked and Aladdin. Another new Broadway show, Heisenberg, prompts Roscoe to share one of his great unpleasant theater-going experiences of all time. Hint: It involves a faulty hearing device and a Wednesday matinee crowd. And tickets for Sally Field in The Glass Menagerie appear to be selling briskly for a March opening. Lost footage of a filmed version of this play from the 1960’s starring Shirley Booth of Hazel fame and Hal Holbrook will be aired on Turner Classic Moviesduring December.

Gary went to the circus again. For the first time in 134 years without elephants. But it’s still an experience not to be missed. Booth One tip: Sit as close as you can without being in the front row. It’s worth it for the smell of the greasepaint and the roar of the crowd. As well as the snarling of the lions and tigers. Here’s an image of Gary in his souvenir pachyderm hat!On a related note, Elephant Polo will now be disbanded in Nepal in the continuing and important efforts for elephant conservation and welfare. Though widely known for it’s humane treatment of the animals since 1982, a spokesperson for the International Elephant Polo Championships said, “We’ve always been ahead of the game in the way we treat our elephants, but we prefer our elephants to remain as elephants, and elephant polo is hardly that.” Live long and prosper, you great giants of the jungle.

It’s been a stellar season for great movies, but we rue the fact that many of the smaller films come and go so quickly in Chicago to make room for the holiday blockbusters. Some films we wish stayed around longer so we could see them are Moonlight, Loving, Birth of a Nation andInferno. Roscoe mourns for Warren Beatty and his new film Rules Don’t Apply, which received mixed notices but can only be seen at 10:00am at one theater in the city. And has per screen grosses in only the hundreds of dollars. Sad.

It’s A Wonderful Life has always been one of Gary’s favorite films, and this holiday season he visited the Live in Chicago version presented by American Blues Theatre. It’s a clever, well-produced, and highly entertaining piece of theatre, and Gary recommends it as a perennial must-see. To give our listeners a flavor of the presentation and the high quality of the actors involved, we’ve inserted a few excerpts from the production, courtesy of the American Blues Theatre publicist and friend of the show, Cathy Taylor. You’ll hear George Bailey, Bert & Ernie, Mary Bailey, Mr. Potter, and the unique talents of a great Foley artist. If this doesn’t put you in the holiday spirit, we don’t know what will.

Another installment of Remembering Roscoe highlights the life of Howard Johnson, graduate of Monticello High School in 1912. A true story of triumph of the human spirit. Inspiring, moving, and a story worth remembering.

A final theatre experience for this week is our viewing of I Am My Own Wife at the About Face Theatre. Beautifully directed by Artistic Director Andrew Volkoff, this play was developed by About Face in 2003 and went on on to win a Tony Award for Best Play and the 2004 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Sensitively portrayed by the luminous actress Delia Kropp, the main character Charlotte von Mahlsdorf survives the Third Reich and Communist regime in East Berlin and lives to tell her tale. Expanded by playwright Doug Wright from his original one-person play, Gary highly recommends this production.

A Mexican-born actress who began her career as an alluring heroine in the Spanish-language version of the 1931 horror classic Dracula, Lupita Tovar is widely considered to be the impetus for the creation of the Mexican film industry. Invited to Hollywood at 18, she was ranked No. 1 in her screen test for Fox Pictures, and signed ta $150-a-week contract for one year. The Spanish-language version of Dracula was shot from 7pm to 7am, after the English-language cast had gone home. Ms. Tovar never crossed paths with Bela Lugosi. Her movie career lasted less than 20 years, but her work significantly helped promote Mexican cinema – so much so that she came to be known as the “Sweetheart of Mexico”. Lupita Tovar was 106. Read full obit here.

]]>Roscoe and Gary feel on the cusp of stardom and celebrity as they record Episode 48 in time for the holidays. Basking in the great feedback and listener response to our Charna Halpern interview on the last episode,Old Ebbett Grill in Washington, DC, where the shellfish is always fresh and the oysters are always briny and cold.

We announce the winner of our Hamilton ticket raffle - that lucky someone who will accompany Gary and Roscoe to the Chicago production on Dec. 4. And the winner is......Fran Bernstein, long-time friend and fan of the show! Congratulations, Fran. We'll see you at the PrivateBank Theatre on the aisle! And don't forget we have the VIP Experience before curtain and at intermission. How Booth One of us....

Gary and Roscoe take a tour of the current Broadway season, noting that the aforementioned Hamilton grossed $3.3M last week, the most money ever made in a single week by a Broadway show. Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 also cleared the $1M mark (much to Roscoe's consternation), joining the ranks of The Lion King, Wicked and Aladdin. Another new Broadway show, Heisenberg, prompts Roscoe to share one of his great unpleasant theater-going experiences of all time. Hint: It involves a faulty hearing device and a Wednesday matinee crowd. And tickets for Sally Field in The Glass Menagerie appear to be selling briskly for a March opening. Lost footage of a filmed version of this play from the 1960's starring Shirley Booth of Hazel fame and Hal Holbrook will be aired on Turner Classic Movies during December.

Gary went to the circus again. For the first time in 134 years without elephants. But it's still an experience not to be missed. Booth One tip: Sit as close as you can without being in the front row. It's worth it for the smell of the greasepaint and the roar of the crowd. As well as the snarling of the lions and tigers. Here's an image of Gary in his souvenir pachyderm hat!
On a related note, Elephant Polo will now be disbanded in Nepal in the continuing and important efforts for elephant conservation and welfare. Though widely known for it's humane treatment of the animals since 1982, a spokesperson for the International Elephant Polo Championships said, "We've always been ahead of the game in the way we treat our elephants, but we prefer our elephants to remain as elephants, and elephant polo is hardly that." Live long and prosper, you great giants of the jungle.

It's been a stellar season for great movies, but we rue the fact that many of the smaller films come and go so quickly in Chicago to make room for the holiday blockbusters. Some films we wish stayed around longer so we could see them are Moonlight, Loving, Birth of a Nation and Inferno. Roscoe mourns for Warren Beatty and his new film Rules Don't Apply, which received mixed notices but can only be seen at 10:00am at one theater in the city. And has per screen grosses in only the hundreds of dollars. Sad.

Her theaters have been a prime conduit of talented performers, writers, and directors for film and television. Graduates of the iO have appeared on Saturday Night Live, The Colbert Report, The Daily Show and Late Night with Conan O’Brien, among dozens of others. Mike Myers called Charna Halpern “The Uta Hagen of comedy.” And the New York Times labeled her “The Hidden Architect of Modern Comedy.”

We promote Charna and Del Close‘s book Truth in Comedy – The Manual of Improvisation, widely considered to be the improv “bible” for those wishing to learn the techniques, games and structures of long-form improv and “Harold”. And if you want to learn more from Charna, get her latest book Art by Committee, a guide to advanced improvisation that includes a DVD showing her principles in action.

In a couple of digressions, Gary announces the giveaway of a Hamilton ticket for the lucky winner of a raffle, culled from those who sign up for our A-List at Booth-One.com before November 28. And Roscoe describes his recent New York trip to see Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812 at the Imperial Theatre. Suffice it to say that audience participation does not figure highly in Roscoe’s enjoyment of theatrical entertainment.

Finally, Charna shares her love of animals, particularly her efforts to rescue and find foster homes for dogs. She explains why the ACC animals need homes the most. For more information on adopting a pet from Animal Care & Control in Chicago, go to this site.

She also tells us about the fascinating work she did in Africa with orphaned elephants through David Sheldrick’s Wildlife Trust. And describes what it was like to take walks with a wily giraffe named Kiku. As you know, we love elephants on Booth One!

]]>Gary and Roscoe record Episode 47 before a live audience at Steppenwolf's 1700 Theatre as part of the 1st Annual Chicago Podcast Festival. Special guest in the Booth Charna Halpern discusses the legendary iO Theater in Chicago,Steppenwolf's 1700 Theatre as part of the 1st Annual Chicago Podcast Festival. Special guest in the Booth Charna Halpern discusses the legendary iO Theater in Chicago, and her work over a 30-year career using improvisation to develop and discover future comedy stars.

Her theaters have been a prime conduit of talented performers, writers, and directors for film and television. Graduates of the iO have appeared on Saturday Night Live, The Colbert Report, The Daily Show and Late Night with Conan O'Brien, among dozens of others. Mike Myers called Charna Halpern "The Uta Hagen of comedy." And the New York Times labeled her "The Hidden Architect of Modern Comedy."

We promote Charna and Del Close's book Truth in Comedy - The Manual of Improvisation, widely considered to be the improv "bible" for those wishing to learn the techniques, games and structures of long-form improv and "Harold". And if you want to learn more from Charna, get her latest book Art by Committee, a guide to advanced improvisation that includes a DVD showing her principles in action.

In a couple of digressions, Gary announces the giveaway of a Hamilton ticket for the lucky winner of a raffle, culled from those who sign up for our A-List at Booth-One.com before November 28. And Roscoe describes his recent New York trip to see Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812 at the Imperial Theatre. Suffice it to say that audience participation does not figure highly in Roscoe's enjoyment of theatrical entertainment.

Finally, Charna shares her love of animals, particularly her efforts to rescue and find foster homes for dogs. She explains why the ACC animals need homes the most. For more information on adopting a pet from Animal Care & Control in Chicago, go to this site.

She also tells us about the fascinating work she did in Africa with orphaned elephants through David Sheldrick's Wildlife Trust. And describes what it was like to take walks with a wily giraffe named Kiku. As you know, we love elephants on Booth One!

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau45:37And the Emmy Goes to…Writer and Producer Jay Martel – Episode 46https://booth-one.com/2016/11/and-the-emmy-goes-to-writer-and-producer-jay-martel-episode-46/
Mon, 14 Nov 2016 03:06:34 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1838Peabody and Emmy Award winner Jay Martel joins us in Booth One via Skype all the way from Hollywood! It's our first long-distance interview show and the technology involved has Gary and Roscoe a bit daunted, so we've brought in our audio guru John Lisiecki to run sound for us today. Great to have John back in the studio!
Jay won an Emmy this year as Executive Producer on the brilliant sketch comedy show Key & Peele, now available in full episodes at Comedy Central. One of their recurring sketches became so iconic that Luther, Barack Obama's "Anger Translator" appeared with the president at the White House Correspondents' Dinner.
Jay and producing partner Ian Roberts, a co-founder of the Upright Citizens Brigade, were the show runners (Jay tells us what that entails) for Key & Peele and are now show runners for the TV Land program Teachers - featuring the actresses who performed here in Chicago as the improv group, The Katydids.
Jay is also a successful playwright, essayist (The New Yorker, Rolling Stone, etc.) and novelist. His first novel, Channel Blue, is about an intergalactic alien conglomerate called Galaxy Entertainment that for decades has used the Earth as the basis of a reality TV show for billions of planetary viewers. But the viewership has become bored with our "earthle" behavior and the producing corporation of Channel Blue decides to "cancel" Earth in a spectacular series-ending finale. Only one person can prevent this disaster - out-of-work screenwriter and manic depressive Perry Bunt. And this is just the first 40 pages!! A terrific read and a very funny book. We detour into a few animal stories and talk about Shirley and Jenny, 2 former circus elephants who have an emotional reunion after 22 years when they end up at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee. Watch the touching video here.
Next we discuss the 100-year-old giant tortoise Diego, who single-handedly saved his species from extinction by fathering 800 babies in the past 50 years on the Galapagos Island of Espanola. Conservationists credit Diego's success with the ladies to his handsome, grizzled appearance. You be the
judge.
Finally, an air passenger boarded a flight recently with her "emotional support animal" - a duck wearing red shoes and a Captain America diaper. Gary, Roscoe and Jay discuss the merits and ethical implications of the emotional support animal craze - real or ruse?
Gary and Roscoe are treated to Booth One experiences by being invited into the limousines of Tony and Tina on the way to their "wedding". Roscoe gets the bridal party while Gary travels with the groomsmen as they head to the church on time. Afterwards, we attend the ceremony and reception right here in Chicago. It's a delightful affair, full of humor and outrageous behavior. Do yourself a favor and book your table today for Tony n' Tina's Wedding!
It's not every day that you hear a great Richard Nixon story, but Jay's got one and it
involves rhododendrons and the King of Morocco. And he relates a remarkable anecdote about confronting Jeb Bush about the Florida death penalty while working as an on-air correspondent for Michael Moore's TV Nation.
Kiss of Death:
Phil Chess - Chess Records Boss who spread the Blues
A Polish Jewish immigrant who grew up in Chicago, Phil Chess introduced the world to African-American blues, R&B, and Rock 'n Roll. With his brother Leonard, they founded Chess Records and throughout the 1950's and early '60's, released a string of hits, including Chuck Berry's "Johnny B. Goode," Etta James' "At Last," and Bo Didley's "Who Do You Love." Their second release was Muddy Waters' "Rollin' Stone." Twelve years later in London, Mick Jagger and his friends would name their new band after that record. "The story of the blues is to tell your feelings," he said. "The blues is what comes from the heart." Phil Chess was 95. Read NYT obit here.Peabody and Emmy Award winner Jay Martel joins us in Booth One via Skype all the way from Hollywood! It’s our first long-distance interview show and the technology involved has Gary and Roscoe a bit daunted, so we’ve brought in our audio guru John Lisiecki to run sound for us today. Great to have John back in the studio!

Jay won an Emmy this year as Executive Producer on the brilliant sketch comedy show Key & Peele, now available in full episodes at Comedy Central. One of their recurring sketches became so iconic that Luther, Barack Obama’s “Anger Translator” appeared with the president at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.

Jay and producing partner Ian Roberts, a co-founder of the Upright Citizens Brigade, were the show runners (Jay tells us what that entails) for Key & Peele and are now show runners for the TV Land program Teachers – featuring the actresses who performed here in Chicago as the improv group, The Katydids.

Jay is also a successful playwright, essayist (The New Yorker, Rolling Stone, etc.) and novelist. His first novel, Channel Blue, is about an intergalactic alien conglomerate called Galaxy Entertainment that for decades has used the Earth as the basis of a reality TV show for billions of planetary viewers. But the viewership has become bored with our “earthle” behavior and the producing corporation of Channel Blue decides to “cancel” Earth in a spectacular series-ending finale. Only one person can prevent this disaster – out-of-work screenwriter and manic depressive Perry Bunt. And this is just the first 40 pages!! A terrific read and a very funny book. We detour into a few animal stories and talk about Shirley and Jenny, 2 former circus elephants who have an emotional reunion after 22 years when they end up at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee. Watch the touching video here.

Next we discuss the 100-year-old giant tortoise Diego, who single-handedly saved his species from extinction by fathering 800 babies in the past 50 years on the Galapagos Island of Espanola. Conservationists credit Diego’s success with the ladies to his handsome, grizzled appearance. You be the
judge.

Finally, an air passenger boarded a flight recently with her “emotional support animal” – a duck wearing red shoes and a Captain America diaper. Gary, Roscoe and Jay discuss the merits and ethical implications of the emotional support animal craze – real or ruse?

Gary and Roscoe are treated to Booth One experiences by being invited into the limousines of Tony and Tina on the way to their “wedding”. Roscoe gets the bridal party while Gary travels with the groomsmen as they head to the church on time. Afterwards, we attend the ceremony and reception right here in Chicago. It’s a delightful affair, full of humor and outrageous behavior. Do yourself a favor and book your table today for Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding!

It’s not every day that you hear a great Richard Nixon story, but Jay’s got one and it
involves rhododendrons and the King of Morocco. And he relates a remarkable anecdote about confronting Jeb Bush about the Florida death penalty while working as an on-air correspondent for Michael Moore‘s TV Nation.

Kiss of Death:

Phil Chess – Chess Records Boss who spread the Blues

A Polish Jewish immigrant who grew up in Chicago, Phil Chess introduced the world to African-American blues, R&B, and Rock ‘n Roll. With his brother Leonard, they founded Chess Records and throughout the 1950’s and early ’60’s, released a string of hits, including Chuck Berry’s “Johnny B. Goode,” Etta James’ “At Last,” and Bo Didley’s “Who Do You Love.” Their second release was Muddy Waters’ “Rollin’ Stone.” Twelve years later in London, Mick Jagger and his friends would name their new band after that record. “The story of the blues is to tell your feelings,” he said. “The blues is what comes from the heart.” Phil Chess was 95. Read NYT obit here.

]]>Peabody and Emmy Award winner Jay Martel joins us in Booth One via Skype all the way from Hollywood! It's our first long-distance interview show and the technology involved has Gary and Roscoe a bit daunted,Jay Martel joins us in Booth One via Skype all the way from Hollywood! It's our first long-distance interview show and the technology involved has Gary and Roscoe a bit daunted, so we've brought in our audio guru John Lisiecki to run sound for us today. Great to have John back in the studio!

Jay won an Emmy this year as Executive Producer on the brilliant sketch comedy show Key & Peele, now available in full episodes at Comedy Central. One of their recurring sketches became so iconic that Luther, Barack Obama's "Anger Translator" appeared with the president at the White House Correspondents' Dinner.

Jay and producing partner Ian Roberts, a co-founder of the Upright Citizens Brigade, were the show runners (Jay tells us what that entails) for Key & Peele and are now show runners for the TV Land program Teachers - featuring the actresses who performed here in Chicago as the improv group, The Katydids.

Jay is also a successful playwright, essayist (The New Yorker, Rolling Stone, etc.) and novelist. His first novel, Channel Blue, is about an intergalactic alien conglomerate called Galaxy Entertainment that for decades has used the Earth as the basis of a reality TV show for billions of planetary viewers. But the viewership has become bored with our "earthle" behavior and the producing corporation of Channel Blue decides to "cancel" Earth in a spectacular series-ending finale. Only one person can prevent this disaster - out-of-work screenwriter and manic depressive Perry Bunt. And this is just the first 40 pages!! A terrific read and a very funny book. We detour into a few animal stories and talk about Shirley and Jenny, 2 former circus elephants who have an emotional reunion after 22 years when they end up at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee. Watch the touching video here.

Next we discuss the 100-year-old giant tortoise Diego, who single-handedly saved his species from extinction by fathering 800 babies in the past 50 years on the Galapagos Island of Espanola. Conservationists credit Diego's success with the ladies to his handsome, grizzled appearance. You be the
judge.

Finally, an air passenger boarded a flight recently with her "emotional support animal" - a duck wearing red shoes and a Captain America diaper. Gary, Roscoe and Jay discuss the merits and ethical implications of the emotional support animal craze - real or ruse?

Gary and Roscoe are treated to Booth One experiences by being invited into the limousines of Tony and Tina on the way to their "wedding". Roscoe gets the bridal party while Gary travels with the groomsmen as they head to the church on time. Afterwards, we attend the ceremony and reception right here in Chicago....]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau66:51Potpourri – Episode 45https://booth-one.com/2016/10/potpourri-episode-45/
Mon, 31 Oct 2016 00:31:11 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1799Gary and Roscoe romp through a medley of miscellany, joined unexpectedly by friend-of-the-show Paul Stroili of Episode 43 fame. Paul was loitering outside an Edible Arrangements franchise near our studio, shamelessly advertising for his new hit Chicago show Tony n' Tina's Wedding. So Gary invited him in for a visit and a chat on the air. More about Edible Arrangements than you ever wanted to know...
Roscoe reviews The Scivvies for our listeners - singer/actor/musicians Nick Cearly and Lauren Molina from New York, who perform in their underwear stripped down arrangements of eclectic covers and eccentric originals. Roscoe "charms" other patrons seated near him at the event, which featured guest appearances by musical artists from Hamilton and Wonderful Town. Roscoe's informed notice? Two big thumbs up!
Gary finally sees Wonderful Town at the Goodman Theatre before closing and his take concurs with Roscoe's - a brilliant re-imagining that simply shows what a theatrical genius like Mary Zimmerman and a stellar cast can do with somewhat mediocre musical material. Marvelous performances all, especially by leads Bri Sudia and the aforementioned Lauren Molina. Bri Sudia gives a performance that Gary imagines is reminiscent of a young Fanny Brice or Ethel Merman in her heyday.
We can't avoid discussing the unanimous stellar reviews that Paul and his production of Tony n' Tina's Wedding have received in all the Chicago media. The acting, the direction, the venue, the music and the original 1980's theme make this one of the must-see events in the city this season. Despite the Chicago Cubs' World Series run diverting audiences to their TV sets this October, T n' T is playing to large and repeat crowds, offering an actual church wedding ceremony, an interactive reception, loads of great 80's music, full Italian dinner, champagne toast and real wedding cake. Paul discusses the extraordinary work by the cast and their dedication to naturalism and honest improvisation. Go to www.tonylovestina.com for information and to order tickets. Hurry, though, as it only runs through January 14, 2017.
Another shout out from Roscoe and Gary about their experience at the famous iO Theatre improvisation space, where they saw the Improvised Shakespeare Company. Smart, funny, sophisticated, inspiring and downright thrilling, this troupe of actors and improvisers create a full 2-hour Shakespearean-style play with just a single suggested title from the audience. Ours was called "Without Handlebars" and was hilarious from start to finish. From mistaken identities to rhyming couplets, from iambic pentameter to mismatched lovers, you'll swear you're watching a fully written and prepared script. But NO! It's being made up on the spot for the first - and last - time ever! This is the perfect date night event, and it's only $16. Worth at least twice that. Enough gushing....GO!
Gary, Roscoe and Paul bandy about Broadway's The Cherry Orchard reviews, George Bernard Shaw, War Paint and actress Kate Shindle, appearing in the national tour of Fun Home. Then we revisit Roscoe's grandfather's scrapbooks in our new recurring segment, Remembering Roscoe.
And have you heard about the Ruby Slippers at the Smithsonian Institution? Their home for nearly 40 years, the slippers are in dire need of repair and refurbishment. The Smithsonian is trying to raise $300,000 through a Kickstarter campaign for the year-long task. Seems to us like a lot of money...They're a mismatched pair but evidence proves that they were indeed worn by Judy Garland in The Wizard of Oz. As of this recording, the Smithsonian was over half way to their monetary goal with nearly a month left to go, so it's safe to say they will achieve the necessary amount and we can look forward to seeing a pristine pair of Ruby Slippers on display in the not too distant future. Paul relates a story of finding a pair of shoes, with the heel designed like the Ferris Wheel at the 1893 World Columbian Exhibiti...Gary and Roscoe romp through a medley of miscellany, joined unexpectedly by friend-of-the-show Paul Stroili of Episode 43 fame. Paul was loitering outside an Edible Arrangements franchise near our studio, shamelessly advertising for his new hit Chicago show Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding. So Gary invited him in for a visit and a chat on the air. More about Edible Arrangements than you ever wanted to know…

Roscoe reviews The Scivvies for our listeners – singer/actor/musicians Nick Cearly and Lauren Molina from New York, who perform in their underwear stripped down arrangements of eclectic covers and eccentric originals. Roscoe “charms” other patrons seated near him at the event, which featured guest appearances by musical artists from Hamilton and Wonderful Town. Roscoe’s informed notice? Two big thumbs up!
Gary finally sees Wonderful Town at the Goodman Theatre before closing and his take concurs with Roscoe’s – a brilliant re-imagining that simply shows what a theatrical genius like Mary Zimmerman and a stellar cast can do with somewhat mediocre musical material. Marvelous performances all, especially by leads Bri Sudia and the aforementioned Lauren Molina. Bri Sudia gives a performance that Gary imagines is reminiscent of a young Fanny Brice or Ethel Merman in her heyday.

We can’t avoid discussing the unanimous stellar reviews that Paul and his production of Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding have received in all the Chicago media. The acting, the direction, the venue, the music and the original 1980’s theme make this one of the must-see events in the city this season. Despite the Chicago Cubs‘ World Series run diverting audiences to their TV sets this October, T n’ T is playing to large and repeat crowds, offering an actual church wedding ceremony, an interactive reception, loads of great 80’s music, full Italian dinner, champagne toast and real wedding cake. Paul discusses the extraordinary work by the cast and their dedication to naturalism and honest improvisation. Go to www.tonylovestina.com for information and to order tickets. Hurry, though, as it only runs through January 14, 2017.

Another shout out from Roscoe and Gary about their experience at the famous iO Theatre improvisation space, where they saw the Improvised Shakespeare Company. Smart, funny, sophisticated, inspiring and downright thrilling, this troupe of actors and improvisers create a full 2-hour Shakespearean-style play with just a single suggested title from the audience. Ours was called “Without Handlebars” and was hilarious from start to finish. From mistaken identities to rhyming couplets, from iambic pentameter to mismatched lovers, you’ll swear you’re watching a fully written and prepared script. But NO! It’s being made up on the spot for the first – and last – time ever! This is the perfect date night event, and it’s only $16. Worth at least twice that. Enough gushing….GO!

Gary, Roscoe and Paul bandy about Broadway’s The Cherry Orchard reviews, George Bernard Shaw, War Paint and actress Kate Shindle, appearing in the national tour of Fun Home. Then we revisit Roscoe’s grandfather’s scrapbooks in our new recurring segment, Remembering Roscoe.

And have you heard about the Ruby Slippers at the Smithsonian Institution? Their home for nearly 40 years, the slippers are in dire need of repair and refurbishment. The Smithsonian is trying to raise $300,000 through a Kickstarter campaign for the year-long task. Seems to us like a lot of money…They’re a mismatched pair but evidence proves that they were indeed worn by Judy Garland in The Wizard of Oz. As of this recording, the Smithsonian was over half way to their monetary goal with nearly a month left to go, so it’s safe to say they will achieve the necessary amount and we can look forward to seeing a pristine pair of Ruby Slippers on display in the not too distant future. Paul relates a story of finding a pair of shoes, with the heel designed like the Ferris Wheel at the 1893 World Columbian Exhibition here in Chicago, hidden behind a wooden panel in a local bar.

In preparation for our interview with Charna Halpern, owner of the iO Theater, at the Chicago Podcast Festivalon November 19, Gary boldly proposes an Improv game between the three of them. While this exercise will not go down in history as an instant classic, some hilarity ensues as the boys grapple with Truth in Comedy and the difficulties of successful improvisation. Don’t watch this space anytime soon for news of us being booked at the iOTheater or Second City! Perhaps Charna will give us some pointers.

Ms. Nixon virtually reinvented soaps with the 1968 premiere of One Life to Live, which featured a multi-racial cast. Her favorite creation, All My Children debuted in 1970, and three years later a character on the show was the first on TV to undergo a legal abortion after the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision. The grand dame of daytime drama, Nixon was a true trailblazer, writing for Search for Tomorrow, The Guiding Light, As the World Turns and Another World. She wasn’t trying to break barriers, Nixon stated, but thought it was insane to say that entertainment and public service can never be in the same story. Devoted to long-range plotting, she followed the maxim “We don’t just live the high points and the low points, we live minute by minute”. Agnes Nixon was 93. Read LA Times obituary here.

]]>Gary and Roscoe romp through a medley of miscellany, joined unexpectedly by friend-of-the-show Paul Stroili of Episode 43 fame. Paul was loitering outside an Edible Arrangements franchise near our studio, shamelessly advertising for his new hit Chicago...nd-of-the-show Paul Stroili of Episode 43 fame. Paul was loitering outside an Edible Arrangements franchise near our studio, shamelessly advertising for his new hit Chicago show Tony n' Tina's Wedding. So Gary invited him in for a visit and a chat on the air. More about Edible Arrangements than you ever wanted to know...

Roscoe reviews The Scivvies for our listeners - singer/actor/musicians Nick Cearly and Lauren Molina from New York, who perform in their underwear stripped down arrangements of eclectic covers and eccentric originals. Roscoe "charms" other patrons seated near him at the event, which featured guest appearances by musical artists from Hamilton and Wonderful Town. Roscoe's informed notice? Two big thumbs up!
Gary finally sees Wonderful Town at the Goodman Theatre before closing and his take concurs with Roscoe's - a brilliant re-imagining that simply shows what a theatrical genius like Mary Zimmerman and a stellar cast can do with somewhat mediocre musical material. Marvelous performances all, especially by leads Bri Sudia and the aforementioned Lauren Molina. Bri Sudia gives a performance that Gary imagines is reminiscent of a young Fanny Brice or Ethel Merman in her heyday.

We can't avoid discussing the unanimous stellar reviews that Paul and his production of Tony n' Tina's Wedding have received in all the Chicago media. The acting, the direction, the venue, the music and the original 1980's theme make this one of the must-see events in the city this season. Despite the Chicago Cubs' World Series run diverting audiences to their TV sets this October, T n' T is playing to large and repeat crowds, offering an actual church wedding ceremony, an interactive reception, loads of great 80's music, full Italian dinner, champagne toast and real wedding cake. Paul discusses the extraordinary work by the cast and their dedication to naturalism and honest improvisation. Go to www.tonylovestina.com for information and to order tickets. Hurry, though, as it only runs through January 14, 2017.

Another shout out from Roscoe and Gary about their experience at the famous iO Theatre improvisation space, where they saw the Improvised Shakespeare Company. Smart, funny, sophisticated, inspiring and downright thrilling, this troupe of actors and improvisers create a full 2-hour Shakespearean-style play with just a single suggested title from the audience. Ours was called "Without Handlebars" and was hilarious from start to finish. From mistaken identities to rhyming couplets, from iambic pentameter to mismatched lovers, you'll swear you're watching a fully written and prepared script. But NO! It's being made up on the spot for the first - and last - time ever! This is the perfect date night event, and it's only $16. Worth at least twice that. Enough gushing....GO!

Beckie is from Pierceton, IN, but a Chicago girl through and through. She learned piano at an early age and fell in love with music and the performing arts while hanging around the Wagon Wheel Theatre in Warsaw, IN. She has performed at some of the nation’s top clubs, theaters, concert halls, outdoor venues, and cabaret rooms. She most recently appeared at Carnegie Hall and the Auditorium Theatre. We play a few song excerpts throughout the podcast to give you a taste of her talent, style and singular musical gifts.

Gary gives a shout out to the Therapy Players, Chicago’s premier all-psychotherapist comedy improvisation troupe! Seems they’re holding auditions looking for a few new recruits. If you or someone you love is mental health professional, check them out at www.therapyplayers.com.

In addition to performing steadily with Tom, Beckie is also a vocal coach and teacher, has recently become engaged, and sings with Laura Freeman & Marianne Murphy Orlandin a group called Girls Like Us. They’ll be performing their new show Barbra, Bette and Bernadette at Chicago’s famed Davenport’s nightclub on November 19 & 20. Go here for more info and tickets. Beckie’s various musical ventures are part of her BeMe Music empire.

If you like The Golden Girls like we do, you’ll LOVE the new action figures from Funko.Retirees Dorothy, Blanche, Rose and Sophia are posable vinyl figures 3.75 inches tall and ready for action! The four-figure set costs $25 and is only available from participating Target stores and New York Comic Con. Run, don’t walk, to your nearest Target for holiday shopping magic.

There’s nothing like a country and western song title to bring a smile – and an occasional grimace – to your face. Gary cycles through the Best of the Worst Country-Western Song Titles of all time. Here’s one – She Got the Gold Mine and I Got the Shaft. Beckie tells us about the country song she once wrote and one that she intends to.

Roscoe inquires whether anyone can be taught how to sing, in an apparent attempt to jump start a cabaret career of his own. Beckie responds as only a true vocal/performance coach can. Don’t worry, folks. Roscoe and I are probably not leaving the Booth One podcast for vocalist fame and fortune anytime soon!

Chat Pack, anyone? We play a few rounds of our favorite conversational party game with Beckie.

Kiss of Death:Jean Shepard, Female Country Voice with Muscle and Ambition.

A mainstay of the Grand Ole Opry for more than 60 years, Ms. Shepard blazed the Country Music trail for other female singers like Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline and Tammy Wynette. She brought a freewheeling, cheeky style to the eternal themes of heartache, cheating and marital discord, planting the flag for independent women. In the early 1950’s, Ms. Shepard had hits with “The Root of All Evil (Is a Man)”, “Many Happy Hangovers to You” and “Twice the Lovin’ (in Half the Time)”. She was small but her voice was powerful, pure and penetrating. She was also an expert yodeler. Ms. Shepard was an ardent champion of traditional country music throughout her lifetime. She was 82. Read Obit.

]]>Gary and Roscoe are pleased and excited to welcome cabaret artist Beckie Menzie to Booth One this week. Beckie is an award-winning performer, teacher, song writer, musical director and vocal coach, a staple of the Windy City music scene,Beckie Menzie to Booth One this week. Beckie is an award-winning performer, teacher, song writer, musical director and vocal coach, a staple of the Windy City music scene, and nationally recognized as one of the country's finest cabaret entertainers. Along with her musical partner Tom Michael, they have been called, "Sizzling...immensely appealing...one of the most compelling duos in cabaret today!"

Beckie is from Pierceton, IN, but a Chicago girl through and through. She learned piano at an early age and fell in love with music and the performing arts while hanging around the Wagon Wheel Theatre in Warsaw, IN. She has performed at some of the nation's top clubs, theaters, concert halls, outdoor venues, and cabaret rooms. She most recently appeared at Carnegie Hall and the Auditorium Theatre. We play a few song excerpts throughout the podcast to give you a taste of her talent, style and singular musical gifts.

Gary gives a shout out to the Therapy Players, Chicago's premier all-psychotherapist comedy improvisation troupe! Seems they're holding auditions looking for a few new recruits. If you or someone you love is mental health professional, check them out at www.therapyplayers.com.

In addition to performing steadily with Tom, Beckie is also a vocal coach and teacher, has recently become engaged, and sings with Laura Freeman & Marianne Murphy Orland in a group called Girls Like Us. They'll be performing their new show Barbra, Bette and Bernadette at Chicago's famed Davenport's nightclub on November 19 & 20. Go here for more info and tickets. Beckie's various musical ventures are part of her BeMe Music empire.

If you like The Golden Girls like we do, you'll LOVE the new action figures from Funko.
Retirees Dorothy, Blanche, Rose and Sophia are posable vinyl figures 3.75 inches tall and ready for action! The four-figure set costs $25 and is only available from participating Target stores and New York Comic Con. Run, don't walk, to your nearest Target for holiday shopping magic.

There's nothing like a country and western song title to bring a smile - and an occasional grimace - to your face. Gary cycles through the Best of the Worst Country-Western Song Titles of all time. Here's one - She Got the Gold Mine and I Got the Shaft. Beckie tells us about the country song she once wrote and one that she intends to.

Roscoe inquires whether anyone can be taught how to...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau66:40It’s A Wonderful Town! – Episode 43https://booth-one.com/2016/10/wonderful-town-episode-43/
Mon, 03 Oct 2016 01:33:47 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1715Gary and Roscoe greet Autumn in Chicago with anticipation and merriment. While discussing pie fights and pet peeves, Roscoe admits to being officially notified by the Library of Congress about misrepresenting the number of screenings of the newly restored and fully assembled 1927 Laurel and Hardy film The Battle of the Century. Seems he saw the third American screening at Cinecon, not the first. A minor quibble, but worthy of correction.
Gary's latest Sourpuss Smithers peeve concerns the use of the helper word "like". As in "Like he heard this woman on like the train using the word 'like' like as every third or fourth like word and couldn't like believe that a seemingly well-educated and like professional person would be caught like dead in a loud conversation in like public with such a debilitating like speech pattern. Like." We know this is not a new problem, but seriously?
The sharks are back in town in New Smyrna Beach, Florida with three attacks on surfers in one day! NSB is apparently known as the "shark attack capital of the world." Read more here to learn why. And keep your hands and feet inside the boat at all times.
We preview the new season on Broadway with a nod toward those shows closing (Something Rotten, The Humans, An American in Paris, Matilda, Fiddler on the Roof), and a look ahead to upcoming openings. Of particular interest is the revival (again!) of The Glass Menagerie, this time featuring Sally Field. Roscoe is flush with excitement over this and predicts a Tony Award for the former Flying Nun. We like her! We really like her!! Even more exciting is the opening of Hello, Dolly! starring the great one herself, Bette Midler. And featuring David Hyde Pierce as Horace Vandergelder. The first revival in 22 years, this show broke the first day Broadway record for ticket sales, ringing in at $9,082,497! Word on the street has it that Carol Channing, 95, will be in attendance on Opening Night. Oh, to be in the audience that night...
Roscoe gives us his thumbnail review of Wonderful Town, now playing at the Goodman Theatre, directed by the great Mary Zimmerman. "It's bright, colorful...with one show stopper after another after another", says Roscoe. 4 Stars out of 4. Bri Sudia gives what Chris Jones in the Chicago Tribune calls a brilliant, career-making performance. High praise indeed.
You heard it here first on Booth One, folks - The People vs OJ Simpson was going to be BIG! A huge winner at this year's Emmy Awards., including Sarah Paulson as Marcia Clark and Courtney B. Vance as Johnny Cochran. Also, close friend Jay Martel appeared on stage as Executive Producer when Key and Peele won for Outstanding Variety Sketch Show. Nice photo in the NYTimes the next day, Jay! Way to go. Can't wait to have you on the program. See all the Emmy noms and winners here.
Something that we hope will become a recurring segment is Roscoe reading entries from his grandfather Roscoe's scrapbook of letters and reminiscences. Touching, human and revealing, we think you'll find this will become a popular Booth One entry.
Gary and Roscoe pay tribute to one of the great influential voices of the American theater, Edward Albee, who passed away this September. The Zoo Story, A Delicate Balance and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf rank among his many masterpieces. Did you know that he came up with the title for Woolf after seeing it randomly scrawled in soap on a mirror in a downstairs bar in Greenwich Village? The film version starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton remains as one of the most indelible cinema experiences of our lifetimes. Read Bruce Weber's full obituary.
At our listener's request, Gary & Roscoe play a little Chat Pack. Learn what our hosts think about Stevie Nicks, Barbra Streisand, Dreamgirls, Ramon Novarro and Leni Riefenstahl!
Kiss of Death:
Charmian Carr, Played Liesl in The Sound of Music.
Only 21 at the time, Ms. Carr is perhaps best remembered for singing "Sixteen Going on Sev...Gary and Roscoe greet Autumn in Chicago with anticipation and merriment. While discussing pie fights and pet peeves, Roscoe admits to being officially notified by the Library of Congress about misrepresenting the number of screenings of the newly restored and fully assembled 1927 Laurel and Hardy film The Battle of the Century. Seems he saw the third American screening at Cinecon, not the first. A minor quibble, but worthy of correction.

Gary’s latest Sourpuss Smithers peeve concerns the use of the helper word “like”. As in “Like he heard this woman on like the train using the word ‘like’ like as every third or fourth like word and couldn’t like believe that a seemingly well-educated and like professional person would be caught like dead in a loud conversation in like public with such a debilitating like speech pattern. Like.” We know this is not a new problem, but seriously?

The sharks are back in town in New Smyrna Beach, Florida with three attacks on surfers in one day! NSB is apparently known as the “shark attack capital of the world.” Read more here to learn why. And keep your hands and feet inside the boat at all times.

We preview the new season on Broadway with a nod toward those shows closing (Something Rotten, The Humans, An American in Paris, Matilda, Fiddler on the Roof), and a look ahead to upcoming openings. Of particular interest is the revival (again!) of The Glass Menagerie, this time featuring Sally Field. Roscoe is flush with excitement over this and predicts a Tony Award for the former Flying Nun. We like her! We really like her!! Even more exciting is the opening of Hello, Dolly! starring the great one herself, Bette Midler. And featuring David Hyde Pierce as Horace Vandergelder. The first revival in 22 years, this show broke the first day Broadway record for ticket sales, ringing in at $9,082,497! Word on the street has it that Carol Channing, 95, will be in attendance on Opening Night. Oh, to be in the audience that night…

Roscoe gives us his thumbnail review of Wonderful Town, now playing at the Goodman Theatre, directed by the great Mary Zimmerman. “It’s bright, colorful…with one show stopper after another after another”, says Roscoe. 4 Stars out of 4. Bri Sudia gives what Chris Jones in the Chicago Tribune calls a brilliant, career-making performance. High praise indeed.

You heard it here first on Booth One, folks – The People vs OJ Simpson was going to be BIG! A huge winner at this year’s Emmy Awards., including Sarah Paulson as Marcia Clark and Courtney B. Vance as Johnny Cochran. Also, close friend Jay Martel appeared on stage as Executive Producer when Key and Peele won for Outstanding Variety Sketch Show. Nice photo in the NYTimes the next day, Jay! Way to go. Can’t wait to have you on the program. See all the Emmy noms and winners here.

Something that we hope will become a recurring segment is Roscoe reading entries from his grandfather Roscoe’s scrapbook of letters and reminiscences. Touching, human and revealing, we think you’ll find this will become a popular Booth One entry.

Gary and Roscoe pay tribute to one of the great influential voices of the American theater, Edward Albee, who passed away this September. The Zoo Story, A Delicate Balance and Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf rank among his many masterpieces. Did you know that he came up with the title for Woolf after seeing it randomly scrawled in soap on a mirror in a downstairs bar in Greenwich Village? The film version starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton remains as one of the most indelible cinema experiences of our lifetimes. Read Bruce Weber’s full obituary.

Charmian Carr, Played Liesl in The Sound of Music.Only 21 at the time, Ms. Carr is perhaps best remembered for singing “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” in the 1965 pic. After TSOM, Ms. Carr’s only other major Hollywood role was starring with Anthony Perkins in “Evening Primrose”, a 1966 television musical with a score by Stephen Sondheim, in which she played a mysterious young woman who lived in a department store. She fully embraced audiences’ reverence for The Sound of Music, frequently appearing at sing-along performances at the Hollywood Bowl. The daughter of a vaudeville actress and an orchestra leader, Ms. Carr thought people should consider sing-along ‘Sound of Music’ like “going to a therapist”. Charmian Carr was 73. Full Obit here.

]]>Gary and Roscoe greet Autumn in Chicago with anticipation and merriment. While discussing pie fights and pet peeves, Roscoe admits to being officially notified by the Library of Congress about misrepresenting the number of screenings of the newly resto...The Battle of the Century. Seems he saw the third American screening at Cinecon, not the first. A minor quibble, but worthy of correction.

Gary's latest Sourpuss Smithers peeve concerns the use of the helper word "like". As in "Like he heard this woman on like the train using the word 'like' like as every third or fourth like word and couldn't like believe that a seemingly well-educated and like professional person would be caught like dead in a loud conversation in like public with such a debilitating like speech pattern. Like." We know this is not a new problem, but seriously?

The sharks are back in town in New Smyrna Beach, Florida with three attacks on surfers in one day! NSB is apparently known as the "shark attack capital of the world." Read more here to learn why. And keep your hands and feet inside the boat at all times.

We preview the new season on Broadway with a nod toward those shows closing (Something Rotten, The Humans, An American in Paris, Matilda, Fiddler on the Roof), and a look ahead to upcoming openings. Of particular interest is the revival (again!) of The Glass Menagerie, this time featuring Sally Field. Roscoe is flush with excitement over this and predicts a Tony Award for the former Flying Nun. We like her! We really like her!! Even more exciting is the opening of Hello, Dolly! starring the great one herself, Bette Midler. And featuring David Hyde Pierce as Horace Vandergelder. The first revival in 22 years, this show broke the first day Broadway record for ticket sales, ringing in at $9,082,497! Word on the street has it that Carol Channing, 95, will be in attendance on Opening Night. Oh, to be in the audience that night...

Roscoe gives us his thumbnail review of Wonderful Town, now playing at the Goodman Theatre, directed by the great Mary Zimmerman. "It's bright, colorful...with one show stopper after another after another", says Roscoe. 4 Stars out of 4. Bri Sudia gives what Chris Jones in the Chicago Tribune calls a brilliant, career-making performance. High praise indeed.

You heard it here first on Booth One, folks - The People vs OJ Simpson was going to be BIG! A huge winner at this year's Emmy Awards., including Sarah Paulson as Marcia Clark and Courtney B. Vance as Johnny Cochran. Also, close friend Jay Martel appeared on stage as Executive Producer when Key and Peele won for Outstanding Variety Sketch Show. Nice photo in the NYTimes the next day, Jay! Way to go. Can't wait to have you on the program. See all the Emmy noms and winners here.

Something that we hope will become a recurring segment is Roscoe reading entries from his grandfather Roscoe's scrapbook of letters and reminiscences. Touching, human and revealing, we think you'll find this will become a popular Boot...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau60:14Three On The Aisle – Actor/Director Paul Stroili Visits Booth One – Episode 42https://booth-one.com/2016/09/three-aisle-actordirector-paul-stroili-visits-booth-one-episode-42/
Mon, 19 Sep 2016 01:05:59 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1685Gary and Roscoe welcome to The Booth stage and film actor, director, writer and producer Paul Stroili, recently relocated back to Chicago from Los Angeles. Paul's wit, charm and remarkable storytelling make him one of our most hilarious guests to date. See Paul's full bio here. Paul previously co-hosted an entertainment talk radio show in Los Angeles called "State of the Arts" with Michael Sterling, and is pretty savvy behind the mic, as you'll hear. He tells about some of the iconic guests they had on the show, including Carol Channing, Russ Tamblyn and George Chakiris.
Roscoe takes us through his latest Cinecon Classic Film Festival adventures, seeing rarely or never-seen films in Hollywood in the course of 5 days over Labor Day weekend. From Carl Laemmle's King of Jazz, to vintage Spencer Tracy, to meeting legendary film actress Marsha Hunt, it sounds like Roscoe had another great year at Cinecon sitting in the dark with friends.
Paul's latest project is a new production of the audience-interactive theatre piece Tony n' Tina's Wedding here in Chicago. Paul was in the original Chicago production back in the 90's. When the producers heard he was moving back, they tapped him to direct the remount. This time the ceremony will be held in a real church, and attendees will then make their way 2 blocks to the reception site. Paul says the cast is full of "brilliant improvisors who are also great actors." If you've never experienced Tony n' Tina's "special day", do yourself a favor and get a group together and go. And don't forget to bring a few dollar bills! This show is all about one of our favorite things: Audience Participation. The VIP experience includes ringside seats and surprises. We will be checking that out for sure.
We discuss film acting and screenwriting, and dig into The Beating, which Paul wrote and stars in. This terrific short film is a nail-biting, intense drama with a twist. The Beating tells the story of the lengths to which one father will go to end a nightmarish problem of bullying at his son’s school. The Beating premiered at the 2014 Sedona International Film Festival, as well as being an Official Selection at the San Diego Film Festival, the San Jose International Short Film Festival, The Bel Air Film Festival and The College Town Film Festival with screenings and lectures at Penn State and Ohio University. In addition, the script of the film has been used as an instructional tool at Columbia College in their course of study on short filmmaking. You can view the full film here, or by going to Paul's website at www.paulstroili.com. Go to the IMDb entry at this site.
Paul is working on development for a feature film he hopes to make this spring. The screenplay is an adaptation of a play called Wake, by Carey Crim. We can't wait to follow this story!
Gary asks Paul about his most prized possession - two theatre seats from Grauman's Chinese Theatre from the 1950's that he has restored to mint condition, including burgundy mohair reupholstering and a custom-made platform designed to the same rake specs as the theatre floor. His description of the process of restoring them is priceless. It's been said that "to visit Los Angeles and not see the Chinese Theatre is like visiting China and not seeing the Great Wall". Grauman's opulent, awe-inspiring presence and history has been a cornerstone of Hollywood for over 75 years. These seats were apparently installed in 1953 for the opening of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, starring Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell. A photo of these magnificent treasures can be seen in our featured image this week.
Paul's one-man autobiographical show Straight Up With A Twist, in which he coined the term Renaissance Geek long before metrosexual became part of our lexicon, enjoyed over 1,400 performances nationwide, including a twice extended off-Broadway run. He was nominated for an Ovation Award for Best Solo Performance and an LA Weekly Award for this work.Gary and Roscoe welcome to The Booth stage and film actor, director, writer and producer Paul Stroili, recently relocated back to Chicago from Los Angeles. Paul’s wit, charm and remarkable storytelling make him one of our most hilarious guests to date. See Paul’s full bio here. Paul previously co-hosted an entertainment talk radio show in Los Angeles called “State of the Arts“ with Michael Sterling, and is pretty savvy behind the mic, as you’ll hear. He tells about some of the iconic guests they had on the show, including Carol Channing, Russ Tamblyn and George Chakiris.
Roscoe takes us through his latest Cinecon Classic Film Festival adventures, seeing rarely or never-seen films in Hollywood in the course of 5 days over Labor Day weekend. From Carl Laemmle’s King of Jazz, to vintage Spencer Tracy, to meeting legendary film actress Marsha Hunt, it sounds like Roscoe had another great year at Cinecon sitting in the dark with friends.

Paul’s latest project is a new production of the audience-interactive theatre piece Tony n’ Tina’s Weddinghere in Chicago. Paul was in the original Chicago production back in the 90’s. When the producers heard he was moving back, they tapped him to direct the remount. This time the ceremony will be held in a real church, and attendees will then make their way 2 blocks to the reception site. Paul says the cast is full of “brilliant improvisors who are also great actors.” If you’ve never experienced Tony n’ Tina’s “special day”, do yourself a favor and get a group together and go. And don’t forget to bring a few dollar bills! This show is all about one of our favorite things: Audience Participation. The VIP experience includes ringside seats and surprises. We will be checking that out for sure.

We discuss film acting and screenwriting, and dig into The Beating, which Paul wrote and stars in. This terrific short film is a nail-biting, intense drama with a twist. The Beating tells the story of the lengths to which one father will go to end a nightmarish problem of bullying at his son’s school. The Beating premiered at the 2014 Sedona International Film Festival, as well as being an Official Selection at the San Diego Film Festival, the San Jose International Short Film Festival, The Bel Air Film Festival and The College Town Film Festival with screenings and lectures at Penn State and Ohio University. In addition, the script of the film has been used as an instructional tool at Columbia College in their course of study on short filmmaking. You can view the full film here, or by going to Paul’s website at www.paulstroili.com. Go to the IMDb entry at this site.

Paul is working on development for a feature film he hopes to make this spring. The screenplay is an adaptation of a play called Wake, by Carey Crim. We can’t wait to follow this story!

Gary asks Paul about his most prized possession – two theatre seats from Grauman’s Chinese Theatre from the 1950’s that he has restored to mint condition, including burgundy mohair reupholstering and a custom-made platform designed to the same rake specs as the theatre floor. His description of the process of restoring them is priceless. It’s been said that “to visit Los Angeles and not see the Chinese Theatre is like visiting China and not seeing the Great Wall”. Grauman’s opulent, awe-inspiring presence and history has been a cornerstone of Hollywood for over 75 years. These seats were apparently installed in 1953 for the opening of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, starring Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell. A photo of these magnificent treasures can be seen in our featured image this week.

Paul’s one-man autobiographical show Straight Up With A Twist, in which he coined the term Renaissance Geek long before metrosexual became part of our lexicon, enjoyed over 1,400 performances nationwide, including a twice extended off-Broadway run. He was nominated for an Ovation Award for Best Solo Performance and an LA Weekly Award for this work. We ask Paul about his inspiration for the show and what his family is really like. If you need a good laugh and want to watch a true professional at work, take in this one-hour video of the show.

Kiss of Death:

Patrice Munsel, Metropolitan Opera Star and the youngest coloratura soprano to ever grace the stage of the Met. At 17, she walked into the “Metropolitan Auditions of the Air”, the American Idol of its day, and in low-heeled shoes and white socks went into the electrifying “Mad Scene” from Lucia di Lammermoor. She was signed to a contract at once, thus sparking a career that spanned 65 years.

Her name spelled box office in opera, television, movies, concerts, legitimate theater and recordings. Ending her career as an opera singer in the 1950’s, Munsel transitioned easily to musical comedy and operettas, wowing audiences across the world in musicals such as Kiss Me Kate, The King and I, A Little Night Music, Hello, Dolly! and The Sound of Music, in which she starred with her four children. Ms. Munsel had her own television variety show in 1957-1958, and appeared on countless other shows of the time such as The Tonight Show, Texaco Star Theater, Merv Griffin, What’s My Line and I’ve Got a Secret. Patrice Munsel was 91. Read a full Opera News obit here. View TV footage of Ms. Munsel on You Tube.

]]>Gary and Roscoe welcome to The Booth stage and film actor, director, writer and producer Paul Stroili, recently relocated back to Chicago from Los Angeles. Paul's wit, charm and remarkable storytelling make him one of our most hilarious guests to date....here. Paul previously co-hosted an entertainment talk radio show in Los Angeles called "State of the Arts" with Michael Sterling, and is pretty savvy behind the mic, as you'll hear. He tells about some of the iconic guests they had on the show, including Carol Channing, Russ Tamblyn and George Chakiris.

Roscoe takes us through his latest Cinecon Classic Film Festival adventures, seeing rarely or never-seen films in Hollywood in the course of 5 days over Labor Day weekend. From Carl Laemmle's King of Jazz, to vintage Spencer Tracy, to meeting legendary film actress Marsha Hunt, it sounds like Roscoe had another great year at Cinecon sitting in the dark with friends.

Paul's latest project is a new production of the audience-interactive theatre piece Tony n' Tina's Wedding here in Chicago. Paul was in the original Chicago production back in the 90's. When the producers heard he was moving back, they tapped him to direct the remount. This time the ceremony will be held in a real church, and attendees will then make their way 2 blocks to the reception site. Paul says the cast is full of "brilliant improvisors who are also great actors." If you've never experienced Tony n' Tina's "special day", do yourself a favor and get a group together and go. And don't forget to bring a few dollar bills! This show is all about one of our favorite things: Audience Participation. The VIP experience includes ringside seats and surprises. We will be checking that out for sure.

We discuss film acting and screenwriting, and dig into The Beating, which Paul wrote and stars in. This terrific short film is a nail-biting, intense drama with a twist. The Beating tells the story of the lengths to which one father will go to end a nightmarish problem of bullying at his son’s school. The Beating premiered at the 2014 Sedona International Film Festival, as well as being an Official Selection at the San Diego Film Festival, the San Jose International Short Film Festival, The Bel Air Film Festival and The College Town Film Festival with screenings and lectures at Penn State and Ohio University. In addition, the script of the film has been used as an instructional tool at Columbia College in their course of study on short filmmaking. You can view the full film here, or by going to Paul's website at www.paulstroili.com. Go to the IMDb entry at this site.

Paul is working on development for a feature film he hopes to make this spring. The screenplay is an adaptation of a play called Wake, by Carey Crim. We can't wait to follow this story!

Gary asks Paul about his most prized possession - two theatre seats from Grauman's Chinese Theatre from the 1950's that he has restored to mint condition, including burgundy mohair reupholstering and a custom-made platform designed to the same rake specs as the theatre floor. His description of the process of restoring them is priceless.]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau1:00:41Anything Goes, but Don’t Rain On My Parade – Episode 41https://booth-one.com/2016/09/anything-goes-dont-rain-parade-episode-41/
Mon, 05 Sep 2016 00:14:33 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1644Gary and Roscoe are back in form for a whirlwind episode, encompassing everything from elephants to Greenland sharks, from Porter to Streisand, from War Paint to Byhalia, Mississippi. Our new Audience Participation Manager Michelle Houle sits in with us at the studio.
First, a shout out to friend-of-the-show Billy Lawless's new restaurant Coda di Volpe, recently opened in the Southport/Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago. Frequent Booth One listeners will recall Billy's splendid guest appearance during our Taste of Chicago Episode 39. Gary and our producer Betsy were treated like royalty at the Friends and Family soft opening of Coda, and the experience is one to be remembered. This welcome addition to the neighborhood is highly recommended! And they just started serving brunch.
Roscoe revisits War Paint with Patti LuPone and Christine Ebersole at the Goodman Theatre. Though now closed, and presumably being reworked for a New York run, his review remains unchanged - stellar performances in a show without much dramatic tension. If this show is to have any future life, most agree that there's a lot of work to be done around these two pros of the musical stage.
What's the longest-lived vertebrate on the planet? No, not the Blue Whale. It's the Greenland Shark! Living an average of 272 years, some of these natives of the North Atlantic can reach 21 feet long and 2,000 pounds. Many live beyond 400 years. Blind due to all the parasites crowding their eyes, these sharks are said to have an impeccable sense of smell, which they make ample use of when they hunt. Gary won't be deep sea diving in Greenland any time soon. Just what the world needs - a 4 century-old ocean predator!
On to the highlight of Roscoe's year - nearly front row seats to Barbra Streisand! As he struggles to properly describe this Booth One experience without using the word "thrilling" too many times, Roscoe regales us with stories about her concert, her hair, her voice and her song selection. "I could see the whites of her eyes!", he tells us.
Babs told a few stories throughout the evening - for instance, did you know that the album cover for People was actually shot on the beach of Lake Michigan right here in Chicago while she was in town for a concert date? I've never heard Roscoe so excited. Here's her song list from that night.
Act One
The Way We Were
Everything
Being at War with Each Other
Everything Must Change
Woman in Love
Stoney End
Enough is Enough
Evergreen
You Don't Bring Me Flowers
Being Alive
Papa, Can You Hear Me?
Act Two
Pure Imagination
Who Can I Turn To? (with Anthony Newley on video from the Ed Sullivan Show)
Losing My Mind
Isn't This Better
How Lucky Can You Get?
Children Will Listen
Don't Rain on My Parade
People
Happy Days Are Here Again
Encore
I Didn't Know What Time It Was
The show must go on - even without elephants. For the first time in 134 years, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus is sans pachyderms. The new show, "Out of This World", premiered in Fresno, CA in July and is now on tour. Expect an ice floor, an elaborate narrative, and even a smartphone app. But sadly, the elephants have done their last balancing act. Gary and Roscoe plan to attend this new show when it comes to town and will report on that later this fall. Go here for info about Ringling Bros. Center for Elephant Conservation.
Earlier this summer, Gary was engaged to deliver 2 pre-concert presentations for the Grant Park Music Festival's Cole Porter Celebration. Fans of Porter's work will find this edited excerpt from those presentations fascinating, featuring music director Kevin Stites, and Broadway veteran performers Kathy Voytko and Ben Crawford. "Anything Goes" in this lively discussion of Porter's music and lyrics, his life and times, and a history of his hit shows. You'll definitely find a fresh appreciation for the man some call the greatest American songwriter of all time.Gary and Roscoe are back in form for a whirlwind episode, encompassing everything from elephants to Greenland sharks, from Porter to Streisand, from War Paint to Byhalia, Mississippi. Our new Audience Participation Manager Michelle Houle sits in with us at the studio.

First, a shout out to friend-of-the-show Billy Lawless‘s new restaurant Coda di Volpe, recently opened in the Southport/Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago. Frequent Booth One listeners will recall Billy’s splendid guest appearance during our Taste of Chicago Episode 39. Gary and our producer Betsy were treated like royalty at the Friends and Family soft opening of Coda, and the experience is one to be remembered. This welcome addition to the neighborhood is highly recommended! And they just started serving brunch.

Roscoe revisits War Paint with Patti LuPone and Christine Ebersole at the Goodman Theatre. Though now closed, and presumably being reworked for a New York run, his review remains unchanged – stellar performances in a show without much dramatic tension. If this show is to have any future life, most agree that there’s a lot of work to be done around these two pros of the musical stage.

What’s the longest-lived vertebrate on the planet? No, not the Blue Whale. It’s the Greenland Shark! Living an average of 272 years, some of these natives of the North Atlantic can reach 21 feet long and 2,000 pounds. Many live beyond 400 years. Blind due to all the parasites crowding their eyes, these sharks are said to have an impeccable sense of smell, which they make ample use of when they hunt. Gary won’t be deep sea diving in Greenland any time soon. Just what the world needs – a 4 century-old ocean predator!

On to the highlight of Roscoe’s year – nearly front row seats to Barbra Streisand! As he struggles to properly describe this Booth One experience without using the word “thrilling” too many times, Roscoe regales us with stories about her concert, her hair, her voice and her song selection. “I could see the whites of her eyes!”, he tells us.

Babs told a few stories throughout the evening – for instance, did you know that the album cover for People was actually shot on the beach of Lake Michigan right here in Chicago while she was in town for a concert date? I’ve never heard Roscoe so excited. Here’s her song list from that night.Act One
The Way We Were
Everything
Being at War with Each Other
Everything Must Change
Woman in Love
Stoney End
Enough is Enough
Evergreen
You Don’t Bring Me Flowers
Being Alive
Papa, Can You Hear Me?Act TwoPure ImaginationWho Can I Turn To? (with Anthony Newley on video from the Ed Sullivan Show)
Losing My Mind
Isn’t This Better
How Lucky Can You Get?
Children Will Listen
Don’t Rain on My Parade
People
Happy Days Are Here AgainEncore
I Didn’t Know What Time It Was

The show must go on – even without elephants. For the first time in 134 years, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus is sans pachyderms. The new show, “Out of This World“, premiered in Fresno, CA in July and is now on tour. Expect an ice floor, an elaborate narrative, and even a smartphone app. But sadly, the elephants have done their last balancing act. Gary and Roscoe plan to attend this new show when it comes to town and will report on that later this fall. Go here for info about Ringling Bros. Center for Elephant Conservation.

Earlier this summer, Gary was engaged to deliver 2 pre-concert presentations for the Grant Park Music Festival’sCole PorterCelebration. Fans of Porter’s work will find this edited excerpt from those presentations fascinating, featuring music director Kevin Stites, and Broadway veteran performers Kathy Voytkoand Ben Crawford. “Anything Goes” in this lively discussion of Porter’s music and lyrics, his life and times, and a history of his hit shows. You’ll definitely find a fresh appreciation for the man some call the greatest American songwriter of all time. Fun fact: Porter grew up in Peru, Indiana, headquarters of the Hagenbeck & Wallace Circus Troupe. Elephants wandering the downtown streets was not an uncommon sight.

Kiss of Death:

Sulie Harand Friedman, founder of the Harand Theatre Camp

A charismatic actress and singer who was never without her red lipstick, Sulie Friedman co-founded the Harand Camp in Elkhart Lake, WI in 1955 with her sister Pearl Gaffin and their husbands. In the camp’s 1970’s heyday, nearly 400 campers would arrive each summer. True to the camp’s philosophy “No Man is and Isand and Everyone is a Star”, shy, awkward students got top billing, often for the first time in their lives. And everyone performed in the chorus. Camp alumni include Andrew Davis, director of “The Fugitive”, Bruce Block, who produced the Steve Martin “Father of the Bride” films, well-known author of detective fiction, Laura Lippman, and Albert Williams, Columbia College professor of musical theatre, who has said, “They weren’t just teaching show tunes. They were teaching the moral ethos behind the shows, the sense of community, the sense of comradeship.” Sulie Friedman was 97. Read the full profile here. You can see a documentary about Harand Camp at this website.

]]>Gary and Roscoe are back in form for a whirlwind episode, encompassing everything from elephants to Greenland sharks, from Porter to Streisand, from War Paint to Byhalia, Mississippi. Our new Audience Participation Manager Michelle Houle sits in with u...
First, a shout out to friend-of-the-show Billy Lawless's new restaurant Coda di Volpe, recently opened in the Southport/Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago. Frequent Booth One listeners will recall Billy's splendid guest appearance during our Taste of Chicago Episode 39. Gary and our producer Betsy were treated like royalty at the Friends and Family soft opening of Coda, and the experience is one to be remembered. This welcome addition to the neighborhood is highly recommended! And they just started serving brunch.

Roscoe revisits War Paint with Patti LuPone and Christine Ebersole at the Goodman Theatre. Though now closed, and presumably being reworked for a New York run, his review remains unchanged - stellar performances in a show without much dramatic tension. If this show is to have any future life, most agree that there's a lot of work to be done around these two pros of the musical stage.

What's the longest-lived vertebrate on the planet? No, not the Blue Whale. It's the Greenland Shark! Living an average of 272 years, some of these natives of the North Atlantic can reach 21 feet long and 2,000 pounds. Many live beyond 400 years. Blind due to all the parasites crowding their eyes, these sharks are said to have an impeccable sense of smell, which they make ample use of when they hunt. Gary won't be deep sea diving in Greenland any time soon. Just what the world needs - a 4 century-old ocean predator!

On to the highlight of Roscoe's year - nearly front row seats to Barbra Streisand! As he struggles to properly describe this Booth One experience without using the word "thrilling" too many times, Roscoe regales us with stories about her concert, her hair, her voice and her song selection. "I could see the whites of her eyes!", he tells us.

Babs told a few stories throughout the evening - for instance, did you know that the album cover for People was actually shot on the beach of Lake Michigan right here in Chicago while she was in town for a concert date? I've never heard Roscoe so excited. Here's her song list from that night.
Act One
The Way We Were
Everything
Being at War with Each Other
Everything Must Change
Woman in Love
Stoney End
Enough is Enough
Evergreen
You Don't Bring Me Flowers
Being Alive
Papa, Can You Hear Me?
Act Two
Pure Imagination
Who Can I Turn To? (with Anthony Newley on video from the Ed Sullivan Show)
Losing My Mind
Isn't This Better
How Lucky Can You Get?
Children Will Listen
Don't Rain on My Parade
People
Happy Days Are Here Again
Encore
I Didn't Know What Time It Was

The show must go on - even without elephants. For the first time in 134 years, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus is sans pachyderms. The new show, "Out of This World", premiered in Fresno, CA in July and is now on tour. Expect an ice floor, an elaborate narrative, and even a smartphone app. But sadly, the elephants have done their last balancing act.]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau61:25The Next Big Thing: Evan Linder, Tyrone Phillips and Byhalia, Mississippi – Episode 40https://booth-one.com/2016/08/next-big-thing-evan-linder-tyrone-phillips-byhalia-mississippi-episode-40/
Sun, 14 Aug 2016 23:38:15 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1619Gary and Roscoe return once more to the friendly confines of Steppenwolf Theatre to chat with two of the creative geniuses behind a terrific new play, Byhalia, Mississippi, now getting a remounted production through August 21st at the 1700 Theatre, under the auspices of Steppenwolf's Visiting Company Initiative.
Playwright Evan Linder and Director Tyrone Phillips share their thoughts on the creative process of crafting a play, working organically with actors and designers, growing up in the South, their first experiences in the theatre, and the themes addressed in Byhalia, Mississippi.
Evan is a founding member and the Co-Artistic Director of The New Colony theatre company. He works as a playwright, actor and director and teaches playwriting at the University of Chicago. Evan grew up in Memphis, TN, just a few miles up the road from Byhalia, and is a graduate of the College of Charleston in South Carolina. Other works include 11:11, Frat, The Warriors, B-Side Studio and 5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche, which was named Best Overall Production at the 2012 NYC International Fringe Festival, and enjoyed an off-Broadway run as part of Soho Playhouse's 2012-13 season.
Tyrone is the founding Artistic Director of Definition Theatre Company and has served on the artistic staff of Writers Theatre. Named by Chris Jones of the Chicago Tribune as one of the "Hot New Faces of 2015", Tyrone is a graduate of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. In addition to his rising acclaim as a director, he is an accomplished actor, with credits from Definition, Steppenwolf, Windy City Playhouse, Prologue Theatre Company and Milwaukee Repertory Theatre.
Byhalia, Mississippi is a play about forgiveness, acceptance, love and the very core ideas of family. Jim and Laurel Parker are about to become new parents. They are broke. They are loud. They are "proud white trash." When Laurel gives birth to their long overdue child, she and Jim are faced with the biggest challenges of their lives. Byhalia, Mississippi explores a couple in the midst of turmoil and a town with a racially-charged past that finds its way into the present.
Gary calls it the "finest new play he's seen in a very long time." Right up there with Stephen Karam's The Humans. Tyrone refers to it as "a future classic." All agree that this play will find a wider audience and that many productions across the country are in the offing. Listeners, please keep your eyes peeled for a new production happening near you. This is one theatrical experience you won't want to miss.
Kiss of Death:
Marni Nixon, Hollywood's leading "Ghost Singer" in the 1950s and 60s. It's her crystalline soprano that pours from the mouths of Deborah Kerr in The King and I, Natalie Wood in West Side Story and Audrey Hepburn in My Fair Lady, among dozens of others. Because Hollywood didn't want audiences to know its stars couldn't sing, Nixon's contributions went uncredited. For singing the part of Anna in the film and recording of The King and I, she received a total of $420! Ms. Nixon, who continued singing into her 80s, eventually came to regard her heard-but-not-seen life with affection, touring the country in her one-woman show "Marni Nixon: The Voice of Hollywood", and writing a memoir in 2006 titled "I Could Have Sung All Night." Ghost singers, once a Hollywood mainstay, have now, for the most part, become ghosts themselves. Marni Nixon, one of Hollywood's unseen stars, was 86. Read full Bio hereGary and Roscoe return once more to the friendly confines of Steppenwolf Theatre to chat with two of the creative geniuses behind a terrific new play, Byhalia, Mississippi, now getting a remounted production through August 21st at the 1700 Theatre, under the auspices of Steppenwolf’s Visiting Company Initiative.

Playwright Evan Linder and Director Tyrone Phillips share their thoughts on the creative process of crafting a play, working organically with actors and designers, growing up in the South, their first experiences in the theatre, and the themes addressed in Byhalia, Mississippi.

Evan is a founding member and the Co-Artistic Director of The New Colony theatre company. He works as a playwright, actor and director and teaches playwriting at the University of Chicago. Evan grew up in Memphis, TN, just a few miles up the road from Byhalia, and is a graduate of the College of Charleston in South Carolina. Other works include 11:11, Frat, The Warriors, B-Side Studio and 5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche, which was named Best Overall Production at the 2012 NYC International Fringe Festival, and enjoyed an off-Broadway run as part of Soho Playhouse’s 2012-13 season.

Tyrone is the founding Artistic Director of Definition Theatre Company and has served on the artistic staff of Writers Theatre. Named by Chris Jones of the Chicago Tribune as one of the “Hot New Faces of 2015”, Tyrone is a graduate of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. In addition to his rising acclaim as a director, he is an accomplished actor, with credits from Definition, Steppenwolf, Windy City Playhouse, Prologue Theatre Company and Milwaukee Repertory Theatre.

Byhalia, Mississippi is a play about forgiveness, acceptance, love and the very core ideas of family. Jim and Laurel Parker are about to become new parents. They are broke. They are loud. They are “proud white trash.” When Laurel gives birth to their long overdue child, she and Jim are faced with the biggest challenges of their lives. Byhalia, Mississippi explores a couple in the midst of turmoil and a town with a racially-charged past that finds its way into the present.

Gary calls it the “finest new play he’s seen in a very long time.” Right up there with Stephen Karam’s The Humans. Tyrone refers to it as “a future classic.” All agree that this play will find a wider audience and that many productions across the country are in the offing. Listeners, please keep your eyes peeled for a new production happening near you. This is one theatrical experience you won’t want to miss.

Kiss of Death:

Marni Nixon, Hollywood’s leading “Ghost Singer” in the 1950s and 60s. It’s her crystalline soprano that pours from the mouths of Deborah Kerr in The King and I, Natalie Wood in West Side Story and Audrey Hepburn in My Fair Lady, among dozens of others. Because Hollywood didn’t want audiences to know its stars couldn’t sing, Nixon’s contributions went uncredited. For singing the part of Anna in the film and recording of The King and I, she received a total of $420! Ms. Nixon, who continued singing into her 80s, eventually came to regard her heard-but-not-seen life with affection, touring the country in her one-woman show “Marni Nixon: The Voice of Hollywood”, and writing a memoir in 2006 titled “I Could Have Sung All Night.” Ghost singers, once a Hollywood mainstay, have now, for the most part, become ghosts themselves. Marni Nixon, one of Hollywood’s unseen stars, was 86. Read full Bio here

]]>Gary and Roscoe return once more to the friendly confines of Steppenwolf Theatre to chat with two of the creative geniuses behind a terrific new play, Byhalia, Mississippi, now getting a remounted production through August 21st at the 1700 Theatre,Steppenwolf Theatre to chat with two of the creative geniuses behind a terrific new play, Byhalia, Mississippi, now getting a remounted production through August 21st at the 1700 Theatre, under the auspices of Steppenwolf's Visiting Company Initiative.

Playwright Evan Linder and Director Tyrone Phillips share their thoughts on the creative process of crafting a play, working organically with actors and designers, growing up in the South, their first experiences in the theatre, and the themes addressed in Byhalia, Mississippi.

Evan is a founding member and the Co-Artistic Director of The New Colony theatre company. He works as a playwright, actor and director and teaches playwriting at the University of Chicago. Evan grew up in Memphis, TN, just a few miles up the road from Byhalia, and is a graduate of the College of Charleston in South Carolina. Other works include 11:11, Frat, The Warriors, B-Side Studio and 5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche, which was named Best Overall Production at the 2012 NYC International Fringe Festival, and enjoyed an off-Broadway run as part of Soho Playhouse's 2012-13 season.

Tyrone is the founding Artistic Director of Definition Theatre Company and has served on the artistic staff of Writers Theatre. Named by Chris Jones of the Chicago Tribune as one of the "Hot New Faces of 2015", Tyrone is a graduate of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. In addition to his rising acclaim as a director, he is an accomplished actor, with credits from Definition, Steppenwolf, Windy City Playhouse, Prologue Theatre Company and Milwaukee Repertory Theatre.

Byhalia, Mississippi is a play about forgiveness, acceptance, love and the very core ideas of family. Jim and Laurel Parker are about to become new parents. They are broke. They are loud. They are "proud white trash." When Laurel gives birth to their long overdue child, she and Jim are faced with the biggest challenges of their lives. Byhalia, Mississippi explores a couple in the midst of turmoil and a town with a racially-charged past that finds its way into the present.

Gary calls it the "finest new play he's seen in a very long time." Right up there with Stephen Karam's The Humans. Tyrone refers to it as "a future classic." All agree that this play will find a wider audience and that many productions across the country are in the offing. Listeners, please keep your eyes peeled for a new production happening near you. This is one theatrical experience you won't want to miss.

Kiss of Death:

Marni Nixon, Hollywood's leading "Ghost Singer" in the 1950s and 60s. It's her crystalline soprano that pours from the mouths of Deborah Kerr in The King and I, Natalie Wood in West Side Story and Audrey Hepburn in My Fair Lady, among dozens of others. Because Hollywood didn't want audiences to know its stars couldn't sing, Nixon's contributions went uncredited. For singing the part of Anna in the film and recording of The King and I, she received a total of $420! Ms. Nixon, who continued singing into her 80s, eventually came to regard her heard-but-not-seen life with affection, touring the country in her one-woman show "Marni Nixon: The Voice of Hollywood", and writing a memoir in 2006 titled "I Could Have Sung All Ni...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau54:41Roscoe at Large and The Sunday Spotlight – Episode 39https://booth-one.com/2016/08/roscoe-large-sunday-spotlight-episode-39/
Mon, 01 Aug 2016 01:36:31 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1593Roscoe ventures out on the town to bring us this lively episode of conversation about theatre, cabaret and Stephen Sondheim. We get his impressions of what's new and exciting, as well as a perspective on some old favorites. Then stay tuned for our live podcast from Writers Theatre and their Sunday Spotlight focused on Company! Photo at left shows us making the magic with a very smart and savvy audience.
First, Roscoe tells us about War Paint, the world premiere musical at the Goodman Theatre, starring Broadway veterans Patti LuPone and Christine Ebersole.Written and directed by the creative team that brought the world Grey Gardens, this show tells the stories of Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden, who defined beauty standards for the first half of the 20th Century. Brilliant innovators with humble roots, both were masters of self-invention who sacrificed everything to become the country’s first major female entrepreneurs. They were also fierce competitors, whose 50-year tug-of-war would give birth to a major industry. From Fifth Avenue society to the halls of Congress, their rivalry was relentless and legendary—pushing both women to build international empires in a world dominated by men. Hear what Roscoe has to say about this new musical, as well as some reviewer comments from The New York Times, Chicago Tribune and Chicago Sun-Times. Read full NYT review here
Next up, Roscoe fills us in on his cabaret experience seeing the legendary Andrea Marcovicci at Davenport's. With a career spanning four decades, Ms. Marcovicci is a Queen of the Cabaret, and an accomplished stage and film actress. At 67, does she still have what it takes to enthrall a room? Roscoe gives us his verdict...
We revisit the national tour of The Book of Mormon, now playing in Chicago at the ingloriously named Private Bank Theatre (we just call it the Shubert). After five years, how does this religious satire musical with book, lyrics, and music by Trey Parker, Robert Lopez, and Matt Stone hold up in this rapidly changing world of mores and tastes? Roscoe at Large shares his full theatregoing experience with you.
As an added bonus this week, we bring you an excerpt from a pre-show Sunday Spotlight live podcast recording Gary and Roscoe made at the new Writers Theatre. Our guest panelist is Stephen Schellhardt, Associate Producer and Casting Director for Writers. Our topic? Stephen Sondheim and the recent production of Company, now playing through August 7. Read more here. We have great fun in front of a roomful of well-informed theatre patrons, and you'll want to play along with our Sondheim Trivia game. Our thanks to Stephen and artistic director Michael Halberstam for inviting us to their Writers home for this Booth One presentation.
Our Kiss of Death segment this week profiles Betsy Bloomingdale, Socialite and Celebrated Hostess to Dignitaries and Royalty. The wife of the department store heir Alfred S. Bloomingdale, Betsy lived in palatial homes, shopped for $20,000 Paris couture gowns, attended the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana, and dined regularly with Ronald and Nancy Reagan, becoming known as "the first friend of the first lady". She grew up surrounded by Hollywood royalty - Cary Grant, James Stewart, Merle Oberon - and lived in the exclusive Holmby Hills section of Los Angeles where her neighbors over the years were Barbara Stanwyck, Jack Benny, Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and Michael Jackson. She kept diaries of the lavish dinner parties she gave, and took photographs of table settings to avoid using the same one twice. Mrs. Bloomingdale was perennially on the list of the world's best-dressed women. She was 93 years old. Read full obit here.
Roscoe ventures out on the town to bring us this lively episode of conversation about theatre, cabaret and Stephen Sondheim. We get his impressions of what’s new and exciting, as well as a perspective on some old favorites. Then stay tuned for our live podcast from Writers Theatre and their Sunday Spotlight focused on Company! Photo at left shows us making the magic with a very smart and savvy audience.

First, Roscoe tells us about War Paint, the world premiere musical at the Goodman Theatre, starring Broadway veterans Patti LuPone and Christine Ebersole.Written and directed by the creative team that brought the world Grey Gardens, this show tells the stories of Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden, who defined beauty standards for the first half of the 20th Century. Brilliant innovators with humble roots, both were masters of self-invention who sacrificed everything to become the country’s first major female entrepreneurs. They were also fierce competitors, whose 50-year tug-of-war would give birth to a major industry. From Fifth Avenue society to the halls of Congress, their rivalry was relentless and legendary—pushing both women to build international empires in a world dominated by men. Hear what Roscoe has to say about this new musical, as well as some reviewer comments from The New York Times, Chicago Tribune and Chicago Sun-Times. Read full NYT review here

Next up, Roscoe fills us in on his cabaret experience seeing the legendary Andrea Marcovicci at Davenport’s. With a career spanning four decades, Ms. Marcovicci is a Queen of the Cabaret, and an accomplished stage and film actress. At 67, does she still have what it takes to enthrall a room? Roscoe gives us his verdict…

We revisit the national tour of The Book of Mormon, now playing in Chicago at the ingloriously named Private Bank Theatre (we just call it the Shubert). After five years, how does this religious satire musical with book, lyrics, and music by Trey Parker, Robert Lopez, and Matt Stone hold up in this rapidly changing world of mores and tastes? Roscoe at Large shares his full theatregoing experience with you.

As an added bonus this week, we bring you an excerpt from a pre-show Sunday Spotlight live podcast recording Gary and Roscoe made at the new Writers Theatre. Our guest panelist is Stephen Schellhardt, Associate Producer and Casting Director for Writers. Our topic? Stephen Sondheim and the recent production of Company, now playing through August 7. Read more here. We have great fun in front of a roomful of well-informed theatre patrons, and you’ll want to play along with our Sondheim Trivia game. Our thanks to Stephen and artistic director Michael Halberstam for inviting us to their Writers home for this Booth One presentation.

Our Kiss of Death segment this week profiles Betsy Bloomingdale,Socialite and Celebrated Hostess to Dignitaries and Royalty. The wife of the department store heir Alfred S. Bloomingdale, Betsy lived in palatial homes, shopped for $20,000 Paris couture gowns, attended the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana, and dined regularly with Ronald and Nancy Reagan, becoming known as “the first friend of the first lady”. She grew up surrounded by Hollywood royalty – Cary Grant, James Stewart, Merle Oberon – and lived in the exclusive Holmby Hills section of Los Angeles where her neighbors over the years were Barbara Stanwyck, Jack Benny, Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and Michael Jackson. She kept diaries of the lavish dinner parties she gave, and took photographs of table settings to avoid using the same one twice. Mrs. Bloomingdale was perennially on the list of the world’s best-dressed women. She was 93 years old. Read full obit here.

]]>Roscoe ventures out on the town to bring us this lively episode of conversation about theatre, cabaret and Stephen Sondheim. We get his impressions of what's new and exciting, as well as a perspective on some old favorites.
First, Roscoe tells us about War Paint, the world premiere musical at the Goodman Theatre, starring Broadway veterans Patti LuPone and Christine Ebersole.Written and directed by the creative team that brought the world Grey Gardens, this show tells the stories of Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden, who defined beauty standards for the first half of the 20th Century. Brilliant innovators with humble roots, both were masters of self-invention who sacrificed everything to become the country’s first major female entrepreneurs. They were also fierce competitors, whose 50-year tug-of-war would give birth to a major industry. From Fifth Avenue society to the halls of Congress, their rivalry was relentless and legendary—pushing both women to build international empires in a world dominated by men. Hear what Roscoe has to say about this new musical, as well as some reviewer comments from The New York Times, Chicago Tribune and Chicago Sun-Times. Read full NYT review here

Next up, Roscoe fills us in on his cabaret experience seeing the legendary Andrea Marcovicci at Davenport's. With a career spanning four decades, Ms. Marcovicci is a Queen of the Cabaret, and an accomplished stage and film actress. At 67, does she still have what it takes to enthrall a room? Roscoe gives us his verdict...

We revisit the national tour of The Book of Mormon, now playing in Chicago at the ingloriously named Private Bank Theatre (we just call it the Shubert). After five years, how does this religious satire musical with book, lyrics, and music by Trey Parker, Robert Lopez, and Matt Stone hold up in this rapidly changing world of mores and tastes? Roscoe at Large shares his full theatregoing experience with you.

As an added bonus this week, we bring you an excerpt from a pre-show Sunday Spotlight live podcast recording Gary and Roscoe made at the new Writers Theatre. Our guest panelist is Stephen Schellhardt, Associate Producer and Casting Director for Writers. Our topic? Stephen Sondheim and the recent production of Company, now playing through August 7. Read more here. We have great fun in front of a roomful of well-informed theatre patrons, and you'll want to play along with our Sondheim Trivia game. Our thanks to Stephen and artistic director Michael Halberstam for inviting us to their Writers home for this Booth One presentation.

Our Kiss of Death segment this week profiles Betsy Bloomingdale, Socialite and Celebrated Hostess to Dignitaries and Royalty. The wife of the department store heir Alfred S. Bloomingdale, Betsy lived in palatial homes, shopped for $20,000 Paris couture gowns, attended the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana, and dined regularly with Ronald and Nancy Reagan,]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau61:36Booth One Tastes Chicago with Restaurateur Billy Lawless Jr. – Episode 38https://booth-one.com/2016/07/booth-one-tastes-chicago-restaurateur-billy-lawless-jr-episode-38/
Sun, 17 Jul 2016 23:50:37 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1565Recording live from the 2016 Taste of Chicago, Gary and Roscoe enjoy the elements and the sound of Buckingham Fountain while talking in depth with friend of the show, successful restaurateur Billy Lawless Jr. Billy's stable of establishments include The Gage web site, The Dawson web site, Acanto web site and the new Beacon Tavern web site. Days after this interview, Billy opened Coda Di Volpe on Southport. We got to go to the Friends and Family pre-opening and it is marvelous! Enjoy the photographs of these beautifully designed restaurants, then go see them in person!
We talk food, customer experience, service and location, location, location! Billy describes the thinking behind his restaurants' menus and wine lists and tells us about his great Beverage Director, Jon McDaniel. We talk about Ireland and the Brexit. And pork mac and cheese. Billy shares his keys to success, which would be helpful to owners of any business.
Billy's dad Billy Sr. emigrated from Galway, Ireland, 18 years ago and was immediately successful with his first Irish pub establishment in Lakeview. From there, the Lawless Restaurant Group has grown into one of the most excellent and prominent hospitality organizations in Chicago. Do yourself a favor and visit one of these marvelous restaurants. And tell them Booth One sent you!
Did you know that Buckingham Fountain, clearly audible in the background of this episode, has 134 firing water jets and circulates 1.5 million of gallons of water? Recently, Atlas Obscura provided an opportunity for people to get a glimpse of how the complex plumbing and pumps work on their "Buckingham Fountain Underground Pump Room Tour".
How many hot dogs do Americans consume between Memorial Day and Labor Day each year? 1 billion? 3 billion? Try 7 BILLION! That averages to about 818 per second! What's your contribution? Source: USA Today
Participate in this years' Le Diner En Blanc, where picnickers meet in a public location and dress all in white. The meeting location is kept secret until the day of the event and is available to paying guests only. This 5th Chicago edition is scheduled for August 12 and tickets are $37.50 plus an $8 membership fee. Register for the waiting list now and plan to purchase tickets on July 20. For more information, go to Chicago.dinerenblanc.info. And break out your summer whites!
Booth One gives one of its usual summer shout outs to the Grant Park Music Festival, the largest free classical music festival in the world. Though you might have missed their Cole Porter Celebration on July 8 & 9, there are still plenty of concerts to be heard before the end of the season in late August. Get yourself to Chicago and the magnificent Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park for an outstanding evening of music under the stars.
Our Kiss of Death celebration-of-a-life segment is Lorna Kelly, who "Left Sotheby's Rostrum to Help the Poor." An Upper East Side socialite who was one of the first female fine-art auctioneers in the world in the 1970's, Ms. Kelly grew discontent during the 1980's and felt a spiritual void. So she decamped, unbidden, for India and Mother Teresa, the first in a series of charitable endeavors that occupied her ever after. Ms. Kelly was 70. Read more of her inspirational story in Margalit Fox's NYTimes obituary. And check out her spiritual memoir, "In the Footsteps of the Camel" here.
Recording live from the 2016 Taste of Chicago, Gary and Roscoe enjoy the elements and the sound of Buckingham Fountain while talking in depth with friend of the show, successful restaurateur Billy Lawless Jr. Billy’s stable of establishments include The Gage web site, The Dawson web site, Acanto web site and the new Beacon Tavern web site. Days after this interview, Billy opened Coda Di Volpe on Southport. We got to go to the Friends and Family pre-opening and it is marvelous! Enjoy the photographs of these beautifully designed restaurants, then go see them in person!

We talk food, customer experience, service and location, location, location! Billy describes the thinking behind his restaurants’ menus and wine lists and tells us about his great Beverage Director, Jon McDaniel. We talk about Ireland and the Brexit. And pork mac and cheese. Billy shares his keys to success, which would be helpful to owners of any business.

Billy’s dad Billy Sr. emigrated from Galway, Ireland, 18 years ago and was immediately successful with his first Irish pub establishment in Lakeview. From there, the Lawless Restaurant Group has grown into one of the most excellent and prominent hospitality organizations in Chicago. Do yourself a favor and visit one of these marvelous restaurants. And tell them Booth One sent you!

Did you know that Buckingham Fountain, clearly audible in the background of this episode, has 134 firing water jets and circulates 1.5 million of gallons of water? Recently, Atlas Obscura provided an opportunity for people to get a glimpse of how the complex plumbing and pumps work on their “Buckingham Fountain Underground Pump Room Tour”.

How many hot dogs do Americans consume between Memorial Day and Labor Day each year? 1 billion? 3 billion? Try 7 BILLION! That averages to about 818 per second! What’s your contribution? Source: USA Today

Participate in this years’ Le Diner En Blanc, where picnickers meet in a public location and dress all in white. The meeting location is kept secret until the day of the event and is available to paying guests only. This 5th Chicago edition is scheduled for August 12 and tickets are $37.50 plus an $8 membership fee. Register for the waiting list now and plan to purchase tickets on July 20. For more information, go to Chicago.dinerenblanc.info. And break out your summer whites!

Booth One gives one of its usual summer shout outs to the Grant Park Music Festival, the largest free classical music festival in the world. Though you might have missed their Cole Porter Celebration on July 8 & 9, there are still plenty of concerts to be heard before the end of the season in late August. Get yourself to Chicago and the magnificent Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park for an outstanding evening of music under the stars.

Our Kiss of Death celebration-of-a-life segment is Lorna Kelly, who “Left Sotheby’s Rostrum to Help the Poor.” An Upper East Side socialite who was one of the first female fine-art auctioneers in the world in the 1970’s, Ms. Kelly grew discontent during the 1980’s and felt a spiritual void. So she decamped, unbidden, for India and Mother Teresa, the first in a series of charitable endeavors that occupied her ever after. Ms. Kelly was 70. Read more of her inspirational story in Margalit Fox’s NYTimes obituary. And check out her spiritual memoir, “In the Footsteps of the Camel” here.

]]>Recording live from the 2016 Taste of Chicago, Gary and Roscoe enjoy the elements and the sound of Buckingham Fountain while talking in depth with friend of the show, successful restaurateur Billy Lawless Jr.web site, The Dawson web site, Acanto web site and the new Beacon Tavern web site. Days after this interview, Billy opened Coda Di Volpe on Southport. We got to go to the Friends and Family pre-opening and it is marvelous! Enjoy the photographs of these beautifully designed restaurants, then go see them in person!

We talk food, customer experience, service and location, location, location! Billy describes the thinking behind his restaurants' menus and wine lists and tells us about his great Beverage Director, Jon McDaniel. We talk about Ireland and the Brexit. And pork mac and cheese. Billy shares his keys to success, which would be helpful to owners of any business.

Billy's dad Billy Sr. emigrated from Galway, Ireland, 18 years ago and was immediately successful with his first Irish pub establishment in Lakeview. From there, the Lawless Restaurant Group has grown into one of the most excellent and prominent hospitality organizations in Chicago. Do yourself a favor and visit one of these marvelous restaurants. And tell them Booth One sent you!

Did you know that Buckingham Fountain, clearly audible in the background of this episode, has 134 firing water jets and circulates 1.5 million of gallons of water? Recently, Atlas Obscura provided an opportunity for people to get a glimpse of how the complex plumbing and pumps work on their "Buckingham Fountain Underground Pump Room Tour".

How many hot dogs do Americans consume between Memorial Day and Labor Day each year? 1 billion? 3 billion? Try 7 BILLION! That averages to about 818 per second! What's your contribution? Source: USA Today

Participate in this years' Le Diner En Blanc, where picnickers meet in a public location and dress all in white. The meeting location is kept secret until the day of the event and is available to paying guests only. This 5th Chicago edition is scheduled for August 12 and tickets are $37.50 plus an $8 membership fee. Register for the waiting list now and plan to purchase tickets on July 20. For more information, go to Chicago.dinerenblanc.info. And break out your summer whites!

Booth One gives one of its usual summer shout outs to the Grant Park Music Festival, the largest free classical music festival in the world. Though you might have missed their Cole Porter Celebration on July 8 & 9, there are still plenty of concerts to be heard before the end of the season in late August. Get yourself to Chicago and the magnificent Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park for an outstanding evening of music under the stars.

If you haven’t read any of his work, do yourself a favor and pick up a volume. Here’s his bio.

Our show begins with a remembrance of Muhammad Ali and how boxing imagery appears in some of Stuart’s writing. Ali transcended sport and also his own innate talent and skill to become something more than just a world-class athlete. He was a world-class human being. Read more here.

In 2006, Gary directed a world premiere theatrical adaptation of The Coast of Chicago, a collection of Stuart’s short stories. Adapted by Laura Eason and presented by Walkabout and Lookingglass Theatre Companies, as well as our very own producer, Stuart reflects on what an exciting experience that was.

Learn why Stuart says, “Music is the defining art for me. Always has been.” and what kind of music he writes to. What profession he might have entered if writing hadn’t been his true calling. How memory, recollection and imagery play parts in his creative process. And the difference between narrative and associative writing.

An avid theatergoer, Dybek loves the risks and real chances that Chicago theater artists take. The city’s long history of developing improvisation as an art form is a big part of that risk taking. Shout outs to friends of the show, Improv Olympic and The Second City. More here.

Ever been lost in a big city? Stuart used to get lost in Prague but can’t any longer, to his regret. But he tells a wonderful story of being lost while searching the Michigan woods for mushrooms. Gary relates a tale about getting lost in Seville, Spain, and coming upon a magnificent street ceremony for the Virgin Mary quite by accident. And Roscoe and his family once found themselves disoriented in the Paris Metro.

Stuart loves to write about work and working class characters so we recount our worst jobs -Stuart washed helicopters at Midway and worked on a production line in an ice cream factory. Roscoe toiled summers in his youth in a vegetable canning factory. Gary picked grocery orders in a large and steamy warehouse. What’s your worst work experience?

Finally, we discuss Stuart’s Fabulous Fiction course at Northwestern University. Gary and Roscoe are signing up! Stuart talks about the importance of imagery as a jumping off point to any good story, then tells us about a couple of student stories he particularly likes and that have found publication. He promises to come back and read some of their (and his) works on a future show.

Though Ms. Cole passed in 2010, we thought with her Chicago connection and her involvement in the art of storytelling on the radio, she’d be a fitting conclusion to our conversation with Stuart Dybek. From 1930 to 1940, Shirley Cole lent her high-pitched voice to the spunky, curly-haired Little Orphan Annie, first on WGN and then on national NBC networks. Five days a week she would take the trolley to the radio station for the live broadcast. Imagine! No editing! When Ovaltine (not Shirley’s favorite drink) dropped its sponsorship of the program, Ms. Bell’s acting career came to an end. Shirley Bell Cole was 89. Read full Obituary here.

]]>Gary and Roscoe have long wanted to get award-winning author Stuart Dybek on the show, and now we have! Boy, was it ever worth the wait. Dybek is one of America's finest writers of literary fiction, particularly the short story form.Read this glowing NYT review of his latest work. The reviewer writes that Dybek is "not only our most relevant writer, but maybe our best."

If you haven't read any of his work, do yourself a favor and pick up a volume. Here's his bio.

Our show begins with a remembrance of Muhammad Ali and how boxing imagery appears in some of Stuart's writing. Ali transcended sport and also his own innate talent and skill to become something more than just a world-class athlete. He was a world-class human being. Read more here.

In 2006, Gary directed a world premiere theatrical adaptation of The Coast of Chicago, a collection of Stuart's short stories. Adapted by Laura Eason and presented by Walkabout and Lookingglass Theatre Companies, as well as our very own producer, Stuart reflects on what an exciting experience that was.

Learn why Stuart says, "Music is the defining art for me. Always has been." and what kind of music he writes to. What profession he might have entered if writing hadn't been his true calling. How memory, recollection and imagery play parts in his creative process. And the difference between narrative and associative writing.

An avid theatergoer, Dybek loves the risks and real chances that Chicago theater artists take. The city's long history of developing improvisation as an art form is a big part of that risk taking. Shout outs to friends of the show, Improv Olympic and The Second City. More here.

Ever been lost in a big city? Stuart used to get lost in Prague but can't any longer, to his regret. But he tells a wonderful story of being lost while searching the Michigan woods for mushrooms. Gary relates a tale about getting lost in Seville, Spain, and coming upon a magnificent street ceremony for the Virgin Mary quite by accident. And Roscoe and his family once found themselves disoriented in the Paris Metro.

Stuart loves to write about work and working class characters so we recount our worst jobs -Stuart washed helicopters at Midway and worked on a production line in an ice cream factory. Roscoe toiled summers in his youth in a vegetable canning factory. Gary picked grocery orders in a large and steamy warehouse. What's your worst work experience?

Finally, we discuss Stuart's Fabulous Fiction course at Northwestern University. Gary and Roscoe are signing up! Stuart talks about the importance of imagery as a jumping off point to any good story, then tells us about a couple of student stories he particularly likes and that have found publication. He promises to come back and read some of their (and his) works on a future show.

Kiss of Death - Shirley Bell Cole - Radio Voice of Little Orphan Annie
...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau59:25Words & Music – Carlos Kalmar and Christopher Bell of the Grant Park Music Festival – Episode 36https://booth-one.com/2016/06/words-music-carlos-kalmar-christopher-bell-grant-park-music-festival-episode-36/
Sun, 26 Jun 2016 19:21:37 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1505Meet the artists who lead Chicago's world-class summer music festival. Principle Conductor and Artistic Director Carlos Kalmar and Grant Park Chorus Director Christopher Bell share the microphone with Gary in this behind-the-scenes conversation at the Grant Park Music Festival. Now in its 12th Season at the stunning Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park, the GPMF is the nation's only free outdoor classical music series of its kind. Read about its fascinating history here.
First up, Maestro Kalmar discusses the non-stop fevered nature of putting on a 10-week program of music and entertainment, and how two of the festival's key words for the summer are "time management". Carlos talks about his programming philosophy, his desire to please a wide range of patrons' musical interests, and his unswerving commitment to presenting not only new and rarely heard pieces, but the works of American composers in particular.
Gary asks Carlos about particular pieces on the season calendar, including works by Matinu, Gandolfi, Kernis and Berlioz. And of course the Tchaikovsky Spectacular on Aug. 12 & 13, featuring the the "rediscovered" 1879 version of Piano Concerto No. 1. For the full summer calendar of events, go to the GPMF Website.
Finally, discover what other profession Carlos may have pursued as a young man if music hadn't been his overwhelming passion. The answer may surprise you. Congratulations on 17 glorious Seasons with the GPMF!
Next up, Gary talks with the always entertaining and insightful Christopher Bell, now in his 15th Season with the Grant Park Music Festival. Read his bio here. Christopher has spent a great deal of his career working extensively with Youth and Junior Choruses, particularly in Scotland and his native Northern Ireland. We'll learn about his mentoring and what he finds so rewarding about these endeavors.
Christopher discusses the Chorus outreach concerts this summer, which will feature Shakespeare-themed works in alignment with Chicago's Shakespeare 400 celebration happening all over the city in 2016. And one of his favorite conducting assignments of every season, the spectacular July 4th Independence Day Salute to America and the Armed Forces, with special guests the National Youth Choir of Scotland. See the lineup for that concert here. Christopher never fails to dazzle in sartorial display each Fourth, and this year should be no exception.
And speaking of fashion, we learn about the history of Bell's formidable shoe collection, where he stores them, and what makes him such a footwear fanatic. There's no question that his sparkling personality is reflected in his choice of attire.
It's an honor and a privilege to have these two distinguished artists on Booth One. We hope you will take advantage of the marvelous events that the Grant Park Music Festival offers this and every summer. We recommend a picnic supper on the lawn under the stars. BYOB! And may the music never end.
Meet the artists who lead Chicago’s world-class summer music festival. Principle Conductor and Artistic Director Carlos Kalmar and Grant Park Chorus Director Christopher Bell share the microphone with Gary in this behind-the-scenes conversation at the Grant Park Music Festival. Now in its 12th Season at the stunning Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park, the GPMF is the nation’s only free outdoor classical music series of its kind. Read about its fascinating history here.

First up, Maestro Kalmar discusses the non-stop fevered nature of putting on a 10-week program of music and entertainment, and how two of the festival’s key words for the summer are “time management”. Carlos talks about his programming philosophy, his desire to please a wide range of patrons’ musical interests, and his unswerving commitment to presenting not only new and rarely heard pieces, but the works of American composers in particular.

Gary asks Carlos about particular pieces on the season calendar, including works by Matinu, Gandolfi, Kernis and Berlioz. And of course the TchaikovskySpectacular on Aug. 12 & 13, featuring the the “rediscovered” 1879 version of Piano Concerto No. 1. For the full summer calendar of events, go to the GPMF Website.

Finally, discover what other profession Carlos may have pursued as a young man if music hadn’t been his overwhelming passion. The answer may surprise you. Congratulations on 17 glorious Seasons with the GPMF!

Next up, Gary talks with the always entertaining and insightful Christopher Bell, now in his 15th Season with the Grant Park Music Festival. Read his bio here. Christopher has spent a great deal of his career working extensively with Youth and Junior Choruses, particularly in Scotland and his native Northern Ireland. We’ll learn about his mentoring and what he finds so rewarding about these endeavors.

Christopher discusses the Chorus outreach concerts this summer, which will feature Shakespeare-themed works in alignment with Chicago’s Shakespeare 400 celebration happening all over the city in 2016. And one of his favorite conducting assignments of every season, the spectacular July 4th Independence Day Salute to America and the Armed Forces, with special guests the National Youth Choir of Scotland. See the lineup for that concert here. Christopher never fails to dazzle in sartorial display each Fourth, and this year should be no exception.

And speaking of fashion, we learn about the history of Bell’s formidable shoe collection, where he stores them, and what makes him such a footwear fanatic. There’s no question that his sparkling personality is reflected in his choice of attire.

It’s an honor and a privilege to have these two distinguished artists on Booth One. We hope you will take advantage of the marvelous events that the Grant Park Music Festival offers this and every summer. We recommend a picnic supper on the lawn under the stars. BYOB! And may the music never end.

]]>Meet the artists who lead Chicago's world-class summer music festival. Principle Conductor and Artistic Director Carlos Kalmar and Grant Park Chorus Director Christopher Bell share the microphone with Gary in this behind-the-scenes conversation at the ...here.

First up, Maestro Kalmar discusses the non-stop fevered nature of putting on a 10-week program of music and entertainment, and how two of the festival's key words for the summer are "time management". Carlos talks about his programming philosophy, his desire to please a wide range of patrons' musical interests, and his unswerving commitment to presenting not only new and rarely heard pieces, but the works of American composers in particular.

Gary asks Carlos about particular pieces on the season calendar, including works by Matinu, Gandolfi, Kernis and Berlioz. And of course the Tchaikovsky Spectacular on Aug. 12 & 13, featuring the the "rediscovered" 1879 version of Piano Concerto No. 1. For the full summer calendar of events, go to the GPMF Website.

Finally, discover what other profession Carlos may have pursued as a young man if music hadn't been his overwhelming passion. The answer may surprise you. Congratulations on 17 glorious Seasons with the GPMF!

Next up, Gary talks with the always entertaining and insightful Christopher Bell, now in his 15th Season with the Grant Park Music Festival. Read his bio here. Christopher has spent a great deal of his career working extensively with Youth and Junior Choruses, particularly in Scotland and his native Northern Ireland. We'll learn about his mentoring and what he finds so rewarding about these endeavors.

Christopher discusses the Chorus outreach concerts this summer, which will feature Shakespeare-themed works in alignment with Chicago's Shakespeare 400 celebration happening all over the city in 2016. And one of his favorite conducting assignments of every season, the spectacular July 4th Independence Day Salute to America and the Armed Forces, with special guests the National Youth Choir of Scotland. See the lineup for that concert here. Christopher never fails to dazzle in sartorial display each Fourth, and this year should be no exception.

And speaking of fashion, we learn about the history of Bell's formidable shoe collection, where he stores them, and what makes him such a footwear fanatic. There's no question that his sparkling personality is reflected in his choice of attire.

It's an honor and a privilege to have these two distinguished artists on Booth One. We hope you will take advantage of the marvelous events that the Grant Park Music Festival offers this and every summer. We recommend a picnic supper on the lawn under the stars. BYOB! And may the music never end.

]]>Gary Zabinski44:45Stars & Constellations – Actor Jon Michael Hill – Episode 35https://booth-one.com/2016/06/stars-constellations-actor-jon-michael-hill-episode-35/
Sun, 12 Jun 2016 17:10:02 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1457Gary and Roscoe's "little grey cells" get a workout when rising star and Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble member Jon Michael Hill Read Bio visits the show. Coming to you remotely from the new 80-seat 1700 Theatre performance space at Steppenwolf.
Jon is currently starring in Constellations by Nick Payne at the Upstairs Theater at Steppenwolf, along with the luminous Jessie Fisher. "It's a beautiful, elliptical and elegant exploration of all that is possible when two people meet," says Artistic Director Anna D. Shapiro. "It deals, simultaneously, with the beauty and mystery found in the unknowable vastness of the universe and the ways in which we attempt to define ourselves in a desperate effort to stave off entropy." Only 80 minutes, and it will blow your mind. Constellations runs through July 3.
Jon also co-stars as Detective Marcus Bell with Johnny Lee Miller, Lucy Lui and beloved Chicago actor Aiden Quinn in the hit CBS series Elementary.......the show that imagines Sherlock Holmes living in modern-day Manhattan, helping the NYPD solve crimes. It's Gary's favorite show! No kidding.
After discussing the new 80-seat 1700 Theatre performance space and adjoining Front Bar read full story here, we get down to business with Jon about acting, his upbringing, past shows (including his Tony Award-nominated performance in Tracy Letts' Superior Donuts!), and his band The Wolves. Jon and the band can be seen in the 1700 Theatre on July 13 & 14. Tickets are scarce and only $12.
Gary tells of some notable figures from Jon's hometown of Waukegan, IL, including Ray Bradbury, Vincent Price, Jerry Orbach, Jack Benny, Otto Graham, and film actor of the1930s-1950s, Mickey Kuhn, who appeared with Vivien Leigh in both. Mickey Kuhn
Jon shares his love of Chicago, all kinds of music, and classic films, from Wings of Desire to The 400 Blows to Army of Shadows. Mr. Hill is certainly somewhat to keep and eye on as his career continues to move forward in leaps and bounds. Stage, television and film actor, musician, film lover, and about the nicest guy you will ever meet, Jon Michael Hill is Booth One all the way!
Kiss of Death - Jane Little, world's longest serving orchestra musician. Ms. Little collapsed during a recent performance of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Ironically, the symphony was performing a pops concert called "Broadway's Golden Age", and 30 seconds from the end of Irving Berlin's "There's No Business Like Show Business", the long-time bassist collapsed and was carried backstage by fellow musicians. She never regained consciousness. There was sadness among orchestra members and patrons alike, but also a sense of poetic beauty to the timing of Little's death, doing what she so loved for more than 70 years. Hollywood could not have scripted it better. Jane Little was 87. read full obitGary and Roscoe’s “little grey cells” get a workout when rising star and Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble member Jon Michael HillRead Bio visits the show. Coming to you remotely from the new 80-seat 1700 Theatre performance space at Steppenwolf.

Jon is currently starring in Constellations by Nick Payne at the Upstairs Theater at Steppenwolf, along with the luminous Jessie Fisher. “It’s a beautiful, elliptical and elegant exploration of all that is possible when two people meet,” says Artistic Director Anna D. Shapiro. “It deals, simultaneously, with the beauty and mystery found in the unknowable vastness of the universe and the ways in which we attempt to define ourselves in a desperate effort to stave off entropy.” Only 80 minutes, and it will blow your mind. Constellations runs through July 3.

After discussing the new 80-seat 1700 Theatre performance space and adjoining Front Barread full story here, we get down to business with Jon about acting, his upbringing, past shows (including his Tony Award-nominated performance in Tracy Letts’ Superior Donuts!), and his band The Wolves. Jon and the band can be seen in the 1700 Theatre on July 13 & 14. Tickets are scarce and only $12.

Gary tells of some notable figures from Jon’s hometown of Waukegan, IL, including Ray Bradbury, Vincent Price, Jerry Orbach, Jack Benny, Otto Graham, and film actor of the1930s-1950s, Mickey Kuhn, who appeared with Vivien Leigh in both. Mickey Kuhn

Jon shares his love of Chicago, all kinds of music, and classic films, from Wings of Desire to The 400 Blows to Army of Shadows. Mr. Hill is certainly somewhat to keep and eye on as his career continues to move forward in leaps and bounds. Stage, television and film actor, musician, film lover, and about the nicest guy you will ever meet, Jon Michael Hill is Booth One all the way!

Kiss of Death – Jane Little, world’s longest serving orchestra musician. Ms. Little collapsed during a recent performance of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Ironically, the symphony was performing a pops concert called “Broadway’s Golden Age”, and 30 seconds from the end of Irving Berlin‘s “There’s No Business Like Show Business“, the long-time bassist collapsed and was carried backstage by fellow musicians. She never regained consciousness. There was sadness among orchestra members and patrons alike, but also a sense of poetic beauty to the timing of Little’s death, doing what she so loved for more than 70 years. Hollywood could not have scripted it better. Jane Little was 87. read full obit

]]>Gary and Roscoe's "little grey cells" get a workout when rising star and Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble member Jon Michael Hill Read Bio visits the show. Coming to you remotely from the new 80-seat 1700 Theatre performance space at Steppenwolf. - Read Bio visits the show. Coming to you remotely from the new 80-seat 1700 Theatre performance space at Steppenwolf.

Jon is currently starring in Constellations by Nick Payne at the Upstairs Theater at Steppenwolf, along with the luminous Jessie Fisher. "It's a beautiful, elliptical and elegant exploration of all that is possible when two people meet," says Artistic Director Anna D. Shapiro. "It deals, simultaneously, with the beauty and mystery found in the unknowable vastness of the universe and the ways in which we attempt to define ourselves in a desperate effort to stave off entropy." Only 80 minutes, and it will blow your mind. Constellations runs through July 3.

After discussing the new 80-seat 1700 Theatre performance space and adjoining Front Bar read full story here, we get down to business with Jon about acting, his upbringing, past shows (including his Tony Award-nominated performance in Tracy Letts' Superior Donuts!), and his band The Wolves. Jon and the band can be seen in the 1700 Theatre on July 13 & 14. Tickets are scarce and only $12.

Gary tells of some notable figures from Jon's hometown of Waukegan, IL, including Ray Bradbury, Vincent Price, Jerry Orbach, Jack Benny, Otto Graham, and film actor of the1930s-1950s, Mickey Kuhn, who appeared with Vivien Leigh in both. Mickey Kuhn

Jon shares his love of Chicago, all kinds of music, and classic films, from Wings of Desire to The 400 Blows to Army of Shadows. Mr. Hill is certainly somewhat to keep and eye on as his career continues to move forward in leaps and bounds. Stage, television and film actor, musician, film lover, and about the nicest guy you will ever meet, Jon Michael Hill is Booth One all the way!

Kiss of Death - Jane Little, world's longest serving orchestra musician. Ms. Little collapsed during a recent performance of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Ironically, the symphony was performing a pops concert called "Broadway's Golden Age", and 30 seconds from the end of Irving Berlin's "There's No Business Like Show Business", the long-time bassist collapsed and was carried backstage by fellow musicians. She never regained consciousness. There was sadness among orchestra members and patrons alike, but also a sense of poetic beauty to the timing of Little's death, doing what she so loved for more than 70 years. Hollywood could not have scripted it better. Jane Little was 87. read full obit

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau53:38We Ought To Be in Pictures – with Photographer Marc Hauser – Episode 34https://booth-one.com/2016/06/we-ought-to-be-in-pictures-with-photographer-marc-hauser-episode-34/
Sun, 05 Jun 2016 20:00:58 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1433Coming to you from the Chicago studio of famed photographer Marc Hauser, this edition of Booth One focuses (no pun intended) on Marc's work over 5 decades of taking celebrity portraits around the world. Along the way, we discuss his inspiring journey and the meaning of life.
Marc began taking photographs as a teenager in the north Chicago suburb of Wilmette. At age 13, he was already working for Hugh Hefner and Playboy magazine.
Hauser has taken photographs for Vanity Fair, Rolling Stone, Life Magazine and Marshall Fields, as well as film shoots, album covers, concerts and family portraits.
Marc relates his experiences and shooting sessions with Dolly Parton, Michael Jordan, Cindy Crawford, Woody Allen, Jim McMahon, Sophia Loren, Uma Thurman, Janis Joplin, George Burns and others. Truly a Booth One Experience professional!
Here are some of Marc's images from his studio, along with a few stock images of the people and personalities we cover during this amazing and candid episode...
Hauser took this candid shot of Michael Jordan on a basketball court with backdrop and lighting.
Hauser once traveled with the circus for 3 months, photographing performers, acrobats and animals. This iconic photograph of a show girl on a rearing elephant is one of his most famous. Sadly, one will not be able to see live elephants at the circus any longer, as more and more traveling companies are retiring their pachyderms for humane reasons. So this shot is indeed a record of circus world history.
Marc discusses why Chicago is a city of loyalty and helping hands. Many people have aided Marc in his recuperation and return to working after a tragic accident in 2007 that cost him the use of a leg and his right eye. Chicago ain't known as the City of Big Shoulders for nothing!
Marc's work can be seen at an upcoming show at Adventureland Go to Website, a gallery owned by another renowned Chicago artist and friend of the show, Tony Fitzpatrick. To see more of Marc Hauser's work, visit his website at http://www.hauserportraits.com/ . To schedule a photo session with Marc, call 312-243-7824 and ask for Tara. Marc is offering a sweet deal on Groupon View Deal Here . Bring the family - you won't be disappointed. Marc Hauser is The Real Thing!
Kiss Of Death - Bill Backer, Who Taught the World to Sing. As vice chairman of the ad agency Backer Spielvogel Bates, Mr. Backer was responsible for the writing and creation of perhaps the world's most famous television ad - the classic 1971 Coca-Cola commercial of a diverse groups of singers on a hilltop in Italy, loudly proclaiming: "I'd like to buy the world a Coke, and keep it company" Watch on YouTube. The commercial became a smash success, and recordings by both the Hillside Singers and the New Seekers became Billboard hits. The spot also inspired a 1991 Super Bowl ad, and served as a coda for the AMC series "Mad Men". Bill Backer was 89 and owned a thoroughbred horse farm in Virginia in retirement. Read the full NYTimes obituary here.
Coming to you from the Chicago studio of famed photographer Marc Hauser, this edition of Booth Onefocuses (no pun intended) on Marc’s work over 5 decades of taking celebrity portraits around the world. Along the way, we discuss his inspiring journey and the meaning of life.

Marc began taking photographs as a teenager in the north Chicago suburb of Wilmette. At age 13, he was already working for Hugh Hefner and Playboy magazine.

Hauser has taken photographs for Vanity Fair, Rolling Stone, Life Magazine and Marshall Fields, as well as film shoots, album covers, concerts and family portraits.

Here are some of Marc’s images from his studio, along with a few stock images of the people and personalities we cover during this amazing and candid episode…

Hauser took this candid shot of Michael Jordan on a basketball court with backdrop and lighting.

Hauser once traveled with the circus for 3 months, photographing performers, acrobats and animals. This iconic photograph of a show girl on a rearing elephant is one of his most famous. Sadly, one will not be able to see live elephants at the circus any longer, as more and more traveling companies are retiring their pachyderms for humane reasons. So this shot is indeed a record of circus world history.

Marc discusses why Chicago is a city of loyalty and helping hands. Many people have aided Marc in his recuperation and return to working after a tragic accident in 2007 that cost him the use of a leg and his right eye. Chicago ain’t known as the City of Big Shoulders for nothing!

Marc’s work can be seen at an upcoming show at AdventurelandGo to Website, a gallery owned by another renowned Chicago artist and friend of the show, Tony Fitzpatrick. To see more of Marc Hauser’s work, visit his website at http://www.hauserportraits.com/ . To schedule a photo session with Marc, call 312-243-7824 and ask for Tara. Marc is offering a sweet deal on Groupon View Deal Here . Bring the family – you won’t be disappointed. Marc Hauser is The Real Thing!

Kiss Of Death – Bill Backer, Who Taught the World to Sing. As vice chairman of the ad agency Backer Spielvogel Bates, Mr. Backer was responsible for the writing and creation of perhaps the world’s most famous television ad – the classic 1971 Coca-Cola commercial of a diverse groups of singers on a hilltop in Italy, loudly proclaiming: “I’d like to buy the world a Coke, and keep it company” Watch on YouTube. The commercial became a smash success, and recordings by both the Hillside Singers and the New Seekers became Billboard hits. The spot also inspired a 1991 Super Bowl ad, and served as a coda for the AMC series “Mad Men“. Bill Backer was 89 and owned a thoroughbred horse farm in Virginia in retirement. Read the full NYTimes obituary here.

]]>Coming to you from the Chicago studio of famed photographer Marc Hauser, this edition of Booth One focuses (no pun intended) on Marc's work over 5 decades of taking celebrity portraits around the world. Along the way,
Marc began taking photographs as a teenager in the north Chicago suburb of Wilmette. At age 13, he was already working for Hugh Hefner and Playboy magazine.

Hauser has taken photographs for Vanity Fair, Rolling Stone, Life Magazine and Marshall Fields, as well as film shoots, album covers, concerts and family portraits.

Here are some of Marc's images from his studio, along with a few stock images of the people and personalities we cover during this amazing and candid episode...

Hauser took this candid shot of Michael Jordan on a basketball court with backdrop and lighting.

Hauser once traveled with the circus for 3 months, photographing performers, acrobats and animals. This iconic photograph of a show girl on a rearing elephant is one of his most famous. Sadly, one will not be able to see live elephants at the circus any longer, as more and more traveling companies are retiring their pachyderms for humane reasons. So this shot is indeed a record of circus world history.

Marc discusses why Chicago is a city of loyalty and helping hands. Many people have aided Marc in his recuperation and return to working after a tragic accident in 2007 that cost him the use of a leg and his right eye. Chicago ain't known as the City of Big Shoulders for nothing!

Marc's work can be seen at an upcoming show at Adventureland Go to Website, a gallery owned by another renowned Chicago artist and friend of the show, Tony Fitzpatrick. To see more of Marc Hauser's work, visit his website at http://www.hauserportraits.com/ . To schedule a photo session with Marc, call 312-243-7824 and ask for Tara. Marc is offering a sweet deal on Groupon View Deal Here . Bring the family - you won't be disappointed. Marc Hauser is The Real Thing!

Kiss Of Death - Bill Backer, Who Taught the World to Sing. As vice chairman of the ad agency Backer Spielvogel Bates, Mr. Backer was responsible for the writing and creation of perhaps the world's most famous television ad - the classic 1971 Coca-Cola commercial of a diverse groups of singers on a hilltop in Italy, loudly proclaiming: "I'd like to buy the world a Coke, and keep it company" Watch on YouTube. The commercial became a smash success, and recordings by both the Hillside Singers and the New Seekers became Billboard hits. The spot also inspired a 1991 Super Bowl ad, and served as a coda for the AMC series "Mad Men". Bill Backer was 89 and owned a thoroughbred horse farm in Virginia in retirement. Read the full NYTimes obituary here.

Sheridan Smith, star of Funny Girl on the West End in London, has been missing performances and is now on a leave of absence from the show. Rumors abound as to why and for how long, but unkind media and Twitter posts have fanned the flames. Roscoe and Gary are hoping to see this show on Broadway next year, but this could be a blow to the chances of seeing Ms. Smith in the Fanny Brice role. Read more about these happenings and what her understudy has to say in this Daily Mail article. read more here

We look back with amazement on our astonishing good luck and fortune during our recent trip to New York, not only spending time with Chita Rivera (listen to Episode 32 for the full Booth One interview), but getting into a sold out Hamilton! The odds of both happening are astronomical.

Have a Booth One Experience you’d like to share? Go to Booth-One.com and post something on our website and we’ll share it on the air!

Gary and Roscoe venture up to the new Writers Theatre building to see Death of a Streetcar Named Virginia Woolf: A Parody, created in collaboration with Chicago’s Second City. go to website Clever and hilarious, the show features a stellar performance by one of our favorite stage actresses Jennifer Engstrom as Blanche DuBois. Read full Bio

Match wits and picks with Gary and Roscoe as we make our predictions for the 2016 Tony Awards! Is Hamiltona lock for every category? Is The Humans the best play of the season? Arthur Miller or Eugene O’Neill as Best Play Revival? Make you own selections here and watch the Tony Awards on Sunday, June 12 to see who’s the smartest in the land.

World’s oldest living person dies – again! 116-year-old Susannah Jones was the last living American who was verified to have been born before 1900 (July 6, 1899). The title of OLP now belongs to Italian Emma Morano, born in November of 1899, the last verified person alive to have been born in the nineteenth century. God speed, Susannah, and may we all live as long! Read about her on Wiki.

Tune into our next Booth One Episode when we’ll be talking with noted Chicago photographer Marc Hauser in his West Side studio. Marc has taken iconic photos of Micheal Jordan, Dolly Parton, Janis Joplin, George Burns, Dennis Rodman and a host of other celebrities and world-famous faces. We’re looking forward to an in-depth and candid visit with Mr. Hauser. Go to Website

Kiss of Death – Sylvia Kauders, Late-Blooming Actress:

Ms. Kauders had worked for 30 years as the Special Events Director of the City of Philadelphia when she decided to pursue her first love of acting at the age of 60. She became a familiar face to film and television viewers , playing scores of small but memorable roles in Witness, American Splendor, Analyze That, Crimes and Misdemeanors, The Sopranos and Inside Llewyn Davis. Her Broadway debut was in Harvey Fierstein’s Torch Song Trilogy, but her favorite role was that of Bubbie, the grandmother in the Jewish Repertory Theater production of Crossing Delancy. Sylvia Kauders was 94. Read the full NYTimes obituary here.

]]>Gary and Roscoe weren't able to get Blanche, Willy, George or Martha on the show this week, so they have to depend on the kindness of strangers. More on that in a minute, but first.... - The strangest stranger of all, Carly "Lilith" Fiorina,
The strangest stranger of all, Carly "Lilith" Fiorina, took only 6 days to bring Ted Cruz's presidential campaign to ruin - 5 years and 357 days less than it took her to destroy HP! Like a bad penny, she keeps turning up. Won't surprise the boys if she is Trump's VP choice. Watch Carly do a disappearing act as she falls from the stage at a Cruz rally recently. Talk about taking a dive! Video here.

Sheridan Smith, star of Funny Girl on the West End in London, has been missing performances and is now on a leave of absence from the show. Rumors abound as to why and for how long, but unkind media and Twitter posts have fanned the flames. Roscoe and Gary are hoping to see this show on Broadway next year, but this could be a blow to the chances of seeing Ms. Smith in the Fanny Brice role. Read more about these happenings and what her understudy has to say in this Daily Mail article. read more here

We look back with amazement on our astonishing good luck and fortune during our recent trip to New York, not only spending time with Chita Rivera (listen to Episode 32 for the full Booth One interview), but getting into a sold out Hamilton! The odds of both happening are astronomical.

Have a Booth One Experience you'd like to share? Go to Booth-One.com and post something on our website and we'll share it on the air!

Gary and Roscoe venture up to the new Writers Theatre building to see Death of a Streetcar Named Virginia Woolf: A Parody, created in collaboration with Chicago's Second City. go to website Clever and hilarious, the show features a stellar performance by one of our favorite stage actresses Jennifer Engstrom as Blanche DuBois. Read full Bio

Match wits and picks with Gary and Roscoe as we make our predictions for the 2016 Tony Awards! Is Hamilton a lock for every category? Is The Humans the best play of the season? Arthur Miller or Eugene O'Neill as Best Play Revival? Make you own selections here and watch the Tony Awards on Sunday, June 12 to see who's the smartest in the land.

World's oldest living person dies - again! 116-year-old Susannah Jones was the last living American who was verified to have been born before 1900 (July 6, 1899). The title of OLP now belongs to Italian Emma Morano, born in November of 1899, the last verified person alive to have been born in the nineteenth century. God speed, Susannah, and may we all live as long! Read about her on Wiki.

Tune into our next Booth One Episode when we'll be talking with noted Chicago photographer Marc Hauser in his West Side studio. Marc has taken iconic photos of Micheal Jordan, Dolly Parton, Janis Joplin, George Burns, Dennis Rodman and a host of other celebrities and world-famous faces. We're looking forward to an in-depth and candid visit with Mr. Hauser. Go to Website

Kiss of Death - Sylvia Kauders, Late-Blooming Actress:

Ms.]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau50:27Chatting with Chita – Rivera, that is! – Episode 32https://booth-one.com/2016/05/chatting-with-chita-rivera-that-is-episode-32/
Mon, 09 May 2016 01:26:32 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1357Yes, Chita Rivera! Roscoe and Gary sit down with the musical theatre legend in her room at the Carlyle Hotel for an intimate chat about dance, her career, Kander & Ebb, and a host of other engaging topics.
The two-time Tony Award winner - for The Rink and Kiss of the Spider Woman - has been nominated a record 10 times for that prestigious award. A native of Washington, DC, Chita began her professional life as a dancer with George Balanchine's School of American Ballet. In 1951, she was cast in her first theatrical role in the touring company of Call Me Madam. Chita was 17. She subsequently landed roles in the Broadway productions of Guys and Dolls, Can-Can, Seventh Heaven and Mr. Wonderful starring Sammy Davis Jr.
Ms. Rivera achieved Broadway stardom with her electric performance of Anita in the original Broadway presentation of West Side Story, directed and choreographed by Jerome Robbins. Other important Broadway roles were in Bye Bye Birdie, Chicago, Jerry's Girls, Nine, The Visit, and Chita Rivera: A Dancer's Life. In 2002, Chita became the first Hispanic woman ever chosen to receive the coveted Kennedy Center Honor. And in 2009, President Barack Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Visit her website at www.chitarivera.com. Learn more about Chita's amazing career here.
A great interview with a great lady! Huge special thanks to Robbie and Rosie!!!
Booth One experience alert - while in New York, Gary and Roscoe miraculously manage to snag two tickets to see.....yes, Hamilton!! Don't ask how, it's a long story. Involving Gary's past life as a Broadway stage manager. Suffice it to say they were wowed beyond belief by their luck, and agree that's it's a good as everyone says. Gary says you will never see a better musical. Roscoe praises the genius of Lin-Manuel Miranda and the seamless integration of music, lyrics, dance, lighting, sound and scenic design. You owe it to yourself to see this show no matter what it takes! Check out Hamilton's website.
Kiss of Death - Joe Patten, Known as the "Phantom of the Fox". For more than 50 years, Mr. Patten worked tirelessly to restore and maintain Atlanta's historic Fox Theater. From saving the massive pipe organ (lovingly called "Mighty Mo" by Atlantans) to rescuing the theater itself from the wrecking ball, Joe became as revered a fixture of the city's cultural life as the theater itself. For decades, Mr. Patten lived in a 3,640-square-foot apartment under the theater's dome, reached by climbing a "cinematically appropriate 39 steps." Our favorite obit writer, Margalit Fox of the New York Times, beautifully chronicles the extraordinary life of this supremely gifted man. Read her full obituary in the New York Times.
Yes, Chita Rivera! Roscoe and Gary sit down with the musical theatre legend in her room at the Carlyle Hotel for an intimate chat about dance, her career, Kander & Ebb, and a host of other engaging topics.

The two-time Tony Award winner – for The Rink and Kiss of the Spider Woman – has been nominated a record 10 times for that prestigious award. A native of Washington, DC, Chita began her professional life as a dancer with George Balanchine’s School of American Ballet. In 1951, she was cast in her first theatrical role in the touring company of Call Me Madam. Chita was 17. She subsequently landed roles in the Broadway productions of Guys and Dolls, Can-Can, Seventh Heaven and Mr. Wonderful starring Sammy Davis Jr.

Ms. Rivera achieved Broadway stardom with her electric performance of Anita in the original Broadway presentation of West Side Story, directed and choreographed by Jerome Robbins. Other important Broadway roles were in Bye Bye Birdie, Chicago, Jerry’s Girls, Nine, The Visit, and Chita Rivera: A Dancer’s Life. In 2002, Chita became the first Hispanic woman ever chosen to receive the coveted Kennedy Center Honor. And in 2009, President Barack Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Visit her website at www.chitarivera.com. Learn more about Chita’s amazing career here.

A great interview with a great lady! Huge special thanks to Robbie and Rosie!!!

Booth One experience alert – while in New York, Gary and Roscoe miraculously manage to snag two tickets to see…..yes, Hamilton!! Don’t ask how, it’s a long story. Involving Gary’s past life as a Broadway stage manager. Suffice it to say they were wowed beyond belief by their luck, and agree that’s it’s a good as everyone says. Gary says you will never see a better musical. Roscoe praises the genius of Lin-Manuel Miranda and the seamless integration of music, lyrics, dance, lighting, sound and scenic design. You owe it to yourself to see this show no matter what it takes! Check out Hamilton’s website.

Kiss of Death – Joe Patten, Known as the “Phantom of the Fox”. For more than 50 years, Mr. Patten worked tirelessly to restore and maintain Atlanta’s historic Fox Theater. From saving the massive pipe organ (lovingly called “Mighty Mo” by Atlantans) to rescuing the theater itself from the wrecking ball, Joe became as revered a fixture of the city’s cultural life as the theater itself. For decades, Mr. Patten lived in a 3,640-square-foot apartment under the theater’s dome, reached by climbing a “cinematically appropriate 39 steps.” Our favorite obit writer, Margalit Fox of the New York Times, beautifully chronicles the extraordinary life of this supremely gifted man. Read her full obituary in the New York Times.

]]>Yes, Chita Rivera! Roscoe and Gary sit down with the musical theatre legend in her room at the Carlyle Hotel for an intimate chat about dance, her career, Kander & Ebb, and a host of other engaging topics. -

The two-time Tony Award winner - for The Rink and Kiss of the Spider Woman - has been nominated a record 10 times for that prestigious award. A native of Washington, DC, Chita began her professional life as a dancer with George Balanchine's School of American Ballet. In 1951, she was cast in her first theatrical role in the touring company of Call Me Madam. Chita was 17. She subsequently landed roles in the Broadway productions of Guys and Dolls, Can-Can, Seventh Heaven and Mr. Wonderful starring Sammy Davis Jr.

Ms. Rivera achieved Broadway stardom with her electric performance of Anita in the original Broadway presentation of West Side Story, directed and choreographed by Jerome Robbins. Other important Broadway roles were in Bye Bye Birdie, Chicago, Jerry's Girls, Nine, The Visit, and Chita Rivera: A Dancer's Life. In 2002, Chita became the first Hispanic woman ever chosen to receive the coveted Kennedy Center Honor. And in 2009, President Barack Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Visit her website at www.chitarivera.com. Learn more about Chita's amazing career here.

A great interview with a great lady! Huge special thanks to Robbie and Rosie!!!

Booth One experience alert - while in New York, Gary and Roscoe miraculously manage to snag two tickets to see.....yes, Hamilton!! Don't ask how, it's a long story. Involving Gary's past life as a Broadway stage manager. Suffice it to say they were wowed beyond belief by their luck, and agree that's it's a good as everyone says. Gary says you will never see a better musical. Roscoe praises the genius of Lin-Manuel Miranda and the seamless integration of music, lyrics, dance, lighting, sound and scenic design. You owe it to yourself to see this show no matter what it takes! Check out Hamilton's website.

Kiss of Death - Joe Patten, Known as the "Phantom of the Fox". For more than 50 years, Mr. Patten worked tirelessly to restore and maintain Atlanta's historic Fox Theater. From saving the massive pipe organ (lovingly called "Mighty Mo" by Atlantans) to rescuing the theater itself from the wrecking ball, Joe became as revered a fixture of the city's cultural life as the theater itself. For decades, Mr. Patten lived in a 3,640-square-foot apartment under the theater's dome, reached by climbing a "cinematically appropriate 39 steps." Our favorite obit writer, Margalit Fox of the New York Times, beautifully chronicles the extraordinary life of this supremely gifted man. Read her full obituary in the New York Times.

]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau69:00Sister Helen Prejean – Episode 31https://booth-one.com/2016/04/sister-helen-prejean-episode-31/
Mon, 25 Apr 2016 13:02:13 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1323An Exclusive Interview with Sister Helen Prejean is the
Topic of our Booth One Podcast this Week.
Sister Helen is in town in support of the Quality of Mercy Project, a three-month public programming initiative examining the complex issues that arise from the production of Dead Man Walking: forgiveness, compassion, the death penalty, mass incarceration, racial inequality, and social injustice. We are pleased she agreed to spend some time talking to us in our studio. Read more here.
Sister Helen Prejean (born in Baton Rouge, LA) is a Roman Catholic nun, a member of the Congregation of St. Joseph and a leading American advocate for the abolition of the death penalty.
Her efforts began in New Orleans, Louisiana. In 1982 a friend asked her to correspond with convicted murderer Elmo Patrick Sonnier, located in the Louisiana State Penitentiary. Sonnier was sentenced to death by electrocution. She visited Sonnier in prison and agreed to be his spiritual adviser in the months leading up to his execution. The experience gave Prejean greater insight into the process involved in executions, and she began speaking out against capital punishment.
Prejean has since ministered to many other inmates on death row and witnessed several more executions.
Her subsequent book Dead Man Walking, a biographical account of her relationship with Sonnier and other inmates on death row, served as the basis for a feature film, an opera, and a play. In the film, Sister Helen was portrayed by Susan Sarandon, who won an Academy Award for her performance. Also starring Sean Penn. Although Prejean herself was uncredited, she made a minor cameo as a woman in a candlelit vigil scene outside Louisiana State Penitentiary.
Prejean's second book, The Death of Innocents: An Eyewitness Account of Wrongful Executions read more here was published in December 2004. In it, she tells the story of two men whom she accompanied to their executions. She believes that both men were innocent. The book also examines the recent history of death penalty decisions. Here is an important one: Glossip v Gross.
In this episode we learn more about Sister Helen's extraordinary efforts in this cause and a few things about the remarkable person who is Sister Helen as well.
Joining us in the studio is Leslie Brown, the Executive Director of the Piven Theatre Workshop right here in Evanston, IL, where a production of Dead Man Walking is being presented from April 16 - May 15, 2016.
We hope you find our interview informative, thought-provoking and enjoyable. Sister Helen is truly a force of nature!
The quality of mercy is not strain'd,
It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven
Upon the place beneath: it is twice blest;
It blesseth him that gives and him that takes:
'Tis mightiest in the mightiest: it becomes
The throned monarch better than his crown;
His sceptre shows the force of temporal power,
The attribute to awe and majesty.
-The Merchant of Venice, Act 4, Scene 1
For more information on the Quality of Mercy Project and the Piven Theatre's production of Dead Man Walking, go to Piven Theatre Workshop at http://www.piventheatre.org. You can reach Sister Helen through Facebook at Sister Helen Prejean or on her web site at http://www.sisterhelen.org.
See Steve Earle performing Ellis Unit One on YouTube here.An Exclusive Interview with Sister Helen Prejean is the

Topic of our Booth One Podcast this Week.

Sister Helen is in town in support of the Quality of Mercy Project, a three-month public programming initiative examining the complex issues that arise from the production of Dead Man Walking: forgiveness, compassion, the death penalty, mass incarceration, racial inequality, and social injustice. We are pleased she agreed to spend some time talking to us in our studio. Read more here.

Sister Helen Prejean (born in Baton Rouge, LA) is a Roman Catholic nun, a member of the Congregation of St. Joseph and a leading American advocate for the abolition of the death penalty.
Her efforts began in New Orleans, Louisiana. In 1982 a friend asked her to correspond with convicted murderer Elmo Patrick Sonnier, located in the Louisiana State Penitentiary. Sonnier was sentenced to death by electrocution. She visited Sonnier in prison and agreed to be his spiritual adviser in the months leading up to his execution. The experience gave Prejean greater insight into the process involved in executions, and she began speaking out against capital punishment.

Prejean has since ministered to many other inmates on death row and witnessed several more executions.

Her subsequent book Dead Man Walking, a biographical account of her relationship with Sonnier and other inmates on death row, served as the basis for a feature film, an opera, and a play. In the film, Sister Helen was portrayed by Susan Sarandon, who won an Academy Award for her performance. Also starring Sean Penn. Although Prejean herself was uncredited, she made a minor cameo as a woman in a candlelit vigil scene outside Louisiana State Penitentiary.

Prejean’s second book, The Death of Innocents: An Eyewitness Account of Wrongful Executions read more here was published in December 2004. In it, she tells the story of two men whom she accompanied to their executions. She believes that both men were innocent. The book also examines the recent history of death penalty decisions. Here is an important one: Glossip v Gross.

In this episode we learn more about Sister Helen’s extraordinary efforts in this cause and a few things about the remarkable person who is Sister Helen as well.

Joining us in the studio is Leslie Brown, the Executive Director of the Piven Theatre Workshop right here in Evanston, IL, where a production of Dead Man Walking is being presented from April 16 – May 15, 2016.

We hope you find our interview informative, thought-provoking and enjoyable. Sister Helen is truly a force of nature!

For more information on the Quality of Mercy Project and the Piven Theatre’s production of Dead Man Walking, go to Piven Theatre Workshop at http://www.piventheatre.org. You can reach Sister Helen through Facebook at Sister Helen Prejean or on her web site at http://www.sisterhelen.org.

]]>An Exclusive Interview with Sister Helen Prejean is the Topic of our Booth One Podcast this Week. Sister Helen is in town in support of the Quality of Mercy Project, a three-month public programming initiative examining the complex issues that arise...
Topic of our Booth One Podcast this Week.
Sister Helen is in town in support of the Quality of Mercy Project, a three-month public programming initiative examining the complex issues that arise from the production of Dead Man Walking: forgiveness, compassion, the death penalty, mass incarceration, racial inequality, and social injustice. We are pleased she agreed to spend some time talking to us in our studio. Read more here.

Sister Helen Prejean (born in Baton Rouge, LA) is a Roman Catholic nun, a member of the Congregation of St. Joseph and a leading American advocate for the abolition of the death penalty.
Her efforts began in New Orleans, Louisiana. In 1982 a friend asked her to correspond with convicted murderer Elmo Patrick Sonnier, located in the Louisiana State Penitentiary. Sonnier was sentenced to death by electrocution. She visited Sonnier in prison and agreed to be his spiritual adviser in the months leading up to his execution. The experience gave Prejean greater insight into the process involved in executions, and she began speaking out against capital punishment.

Prejean has since ministered to many other inmates on death row and witnessed several more executions.

Her subsequent book Dead Man Walking, a biographical account of her relationship with Sonnier and other inmates on death row, served as the basis for a feature film, an opera, and a play. In the film, Sister Helen was portrayed by Susan Sarandon, who won an Academy Award for her performance. Also starring Sean Penn. Although Prejean herself was uncredited, she made a minor cameo as a woman in a candlelit vigil scene outside Louisiana State Penitentiary.

Prejean's second book, The Death of Innocents: An Eyewitness Account of Wrongful Executions read more here was published in December 2004. In it, she tells the story of two men whom she accompanied to their executions. She believes that both men were innocent. The book also examines the recent history of death penalty decisions. Here is an important one: Glossip v Gross.

In this episode we learn more about Sister Helen's extraordinary efforts in this cause and a few things about the remarkable person who is Sister Helen as well.

Joining us in the studio is Leslie Brown, the Executive Director of the Piven Theatre Workshop right here in Evanston, IL, where a production of Dead Man Walking is being presented from April 16 - May 15, 2016.
We hope you find our interview informative, thought-provoking and enjoyable. Sister Helen is truly a force of nature!

Our revised lyrics to The Patty Duke Show theme song are an opening homage to the great Patty Duke who passed away this week. Oscar winner at 16 for The Miracle Worker, and recipient of three Emmy Awards, Ms. Duke also starred in the truly awful Valley of the Dolls. An astounding career and a brave lady. read full bio

We celebrate our 30th episode with fun facts from 30 years ago, 1986: Martin Luther King Jr. Day is celebrated for the first time, the Iran-Contra affair was tops in the news, Top Gun is the highest grossing film of the year, and more.

The last thing Gary needs is a safe haven for sharks. Lo and behold, Ecuador has created a shark sanctuary off the Galapagos Islands the size of Vermont and New Hampshire combined. National Geographic story Would that someone would create a non-shark ocean sanctuary for Gary!

In Chicago news, you’ll hear about the curious case of Dennis Nicholl, who used an electronic jamming device on the Chicago subway to block cell phone signals in an attempt to get some peace and quiet on his commute. While we totally support his motives, the Chicago PD were not so forgiving. Full Story Hoping to avoid jail time, he’s entered a counseling program to deal with his “problems”. To Roscoe, he’s a national hero. We share some public transportation horror stories.

Perhaps the greatest April Fool’s hoax ever perpetrated came from the BBC in 1957 – a report on the bumper spaghetti crop in Italy! Watch this fabulous video of the full original report. Joke’s on You

As discussed in Episode 28, Roscoe’s mother saved many of his boyhood outfits in their original store-bought packaging. Now we have conclusive evidence. Exhibit A…….…Roscoe’s Cub Scout Uniform with a tiny snapshot of him wearing it as a youngster. Kind of gets you all misty-eyed, doesn’t it? In addition, Roscoe tells a remarkable story about his brush with the Boy Scouts and his school testing him for a gifted student program in 3rd grade.

Booth One wishes all the best to retiring Goodman Theatre stage manager Joe Drummond. After 42 years and 133 Goodman productions, Joe is hanging up his stopwatch and prompt books. Good luck, Joe, and thanks for all the tremendous work over the years. read more

Sadly, Barbara Cook has postponed the entire New York engagement of her scheduled one-woman show Then and Now, co-written with James Lapine and directed by Tommy Tune. see more at Playbill.com Gary and Roscoe already had tickets and were looking forward to a Booth One experience with Ms. Cook. Here’s hoping that the show will get mounted somewhere one day soon.

Gary tempts Roscoe with visions of comfort and luxury by featuring two decadent extravagances – a three-floor penthouse for sale in the Plaza Hotel in New York see more; and the newest thing in bedding/clothing hybrids, the Suvet, a cross between a duvet and a suit. Feel like you never even got out of bed!! Click here if you dare!

In Theatre news, we profile our experiences at Arcadia at Writers Theatre and at The Flick at Steppenwolf Theatre Company. Both productions are excellent and engaging, and both feature stellar casts! We wouldn’t expect anything less from the outstanding cultural community that is Chicago theatre. Read more about Arcadiahere and The Flickhere and get yourself to these shows if you can. It’s worth the trip from anywhere.

A new segment debuts in this episode – Recipe of the Week, where we provide our listeners with a tasty and savory new recipe to try. This week, Cassia’s Vietnamese Coffee Pudding! Heat, eat and enjoy! Full Recipe Here

Kiss Of Death – Shannon Bolin, Actress who starred in Damn Yankeesread about the show. Ms. Bolin, like many talented young people in the 1930’s and 40’s, came from a small town (Spenser, SD – pop. 500) and migrated to the East Coast to seek fame and fortune on the stage. She landed the role of Meg Boyd in George Abbott‘s Broadway production, and subsequently recreated the part for the successful film version, starring Tab Hunter, Ray Walston and Gwen Verdon. Shannon Bolin was 99 years old. read full obit

]]>"Meet Gary who's lived most everywhere, from NYC to Lincoln Square. But Roscoe's only seen the sights a boy can see from Ashland heights. What a crazy pair!" - Our revised lyrics to The Patty Duke Show theme song are an opening homage to the great Pat...oe's only seen the sights a boy can see from Ashland heights. What a crazy pair!"

Our revised lyrics to The Patty Duke Show theme song are an opening homage to the great Patty Duke who passed away this week. Oscar winner at 16 for The Miracle Worker, and recipient of three Emmy Awards, Ms. Duke also starred in the truly awful Valley of the Dolls. An astounding career and a brave lady. read full bio

We celebrate our 30th episode with fun facts from 30 years ago, 1986: Martin Luther King Jr. Day is celebrated for the first time, the Iran-Contra affair was tops in the news, Top Gun is the highest grossing film of the year, and more.

The last thing Gary needs is a safe haven for sharks. Lo and behold, Ecuador has created a shark sanctuary off the Galapagos Islands the size of Vermont and New Hampshire combined. National Geographic story Would that someone would create a non-shark ocean sanctuary for Gary!

In Chicago news, you'll hear about the curious case of Dennis Nicholl, who used an electronic jamming device on the Chicago subway to block cell phone signals in an attempt to get some peace and quiet on his commute. While we totally support his motives, the Chicago PD were not so forgiving. Full Story Hoping to avoid jail time, he's entered a counseling program to deal with his "problems". To Roscoe, he's a national hero. We share some public transportation horror stories.

Perhaps the greatest April Fool's hoax ever perpetrated came from the BBC in 1957 - a report on the bumper spaghetti crop in Italy! Watch this fabulous video of the full original report. Joke's on You

As discussed in Episode 28, Roscoe's mother saved many of his boyhood outfits in their original store-bought packaging. Now we have conclusive evidence. Exhibit A..........Roscoe's Cub Scout Uniform with a tiny snapshot of him wearing it as a youngster. Kind of gets you all misty-eyed, doesn't it? In addition, Roscoe tells a remarkable story about his brush with the Boy Scouts and his school testing him for a gifted student program in 3rd grade.

Booth One wishes all the best to retiring Goodman Theatre stage manager Joe Drummond. After 42 years and 133 Goodman productions, Joe is hanging up his stopwatch and prompt books. Good luck, Joe, and thanks for all the tremendous work over the years. read more

Sadly, Barbara Cook has postponed the entire New York engagement of her scheduled one-woman show Then and Now, co-written with James Lapine and directed by Tommy Tune. see more at Playbill.com Gary and Roscoe already had tickets and were looking forward to a Booth One experience with Ms. Cook. Here's hoping that the show will get mounted somewhere one day soon.

Gary tempts Roscoe with visions of comfort and luxury by featuring two decadent extravagances - a three-floor penthouse for sale in the Plaza...]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau54:16Of Easter and Elephants – Episode 29https://booth-one.com/2016/03/of-easter-and-elephants-episode-29/
Mon, 28 Mar 2016 02:34:52 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1250This is Booth One's second Easter holiday for Gary and Roscoe, having just passed the first anniversary of our podcast. Ross reprises his hilarious story of appearing as a young child in a photo in the Niles Daily Sun (Michigan) searching for an Easter Egg in the bushes with his "hind-end" in focus. We appeal to our Booth One podcast nation for a copy of this priceless photo. Happy hunting! And when in Chicago, don't forget to visit The Fudge Pot chocolate store in Old Town to satisfy your sweet tooth! visit their site
Gary talks about his beloved mother Dolores's favorite Polish Easter traditions, gathering around pierogi, kielbasa and lamb cake -- the art of lively conversation flourishing. Our Waspy producer had to get used to the volume. For Poles, Easter is the holiest day of the year. Read more about the food here.
Update on the presidential race: As the GOP may soon meet it's death in the general election, Gary suggests the GOP symbol elephant might go to the amazing Elephant Sanctuary in Hohenwald, Tennessee. This 2700 acre retirement home is filled with features of their natural habitats and is closed to the public. How cool is that? For educational and observational purposes, there are 14 solar-powered "elecams". We love everything about this. Check out the details here!Speaking of lame elephants, Donald Trump. Here's something: One of Trump's first business ventures out of college was backing a Broadway show called Paris is Out by Richard Seff in 1970. The show ran for 96 performances at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre. Would that his campaign closes as quickly. Details in this great NYT story.
LEARN MORE about Gary Z and Roscoe when they play Chat Pack, our favorite game. We aspire to write our own Chat Pack for the show. If you have ideas for questions, please send them in.
This week the Broadway chat boards were alive with controversy and invective as actress Patti Murin rebutted some snarky comments that cropped up on BroadwayWorld.com. web site Not only did they vilify the musical Nerds! she was working on that just got shut down in rehearsals for lack of funding, but some
comments go right after the talent of the actors. Her responses are witty and priceless and should lead to more oversight of these chat boards in the future. read more
Find out how Roscoe learned his lesson in writing on the chat boards in his story about actress Irene Dailey. read bio
Looking for that perfectly "little" cute place in the Village or Little Italy? Well, look no further than Mr. Donahue's, a 9-seat restaurant serving hearty meals in a tiny space. go to website No reservations, first come only. Better bring a book. And an umbrella. And find out more about Columbia University student Jonah Reider who opened a restaurant in his dorm room to raise a little extra cash. He's gotten more than he bargained for! read more here
Gary and Roscoe recount their Booth One experience attending Chicago Shakespeare Theatre's new production of Othello. As new press list members, we received the royal treatment. Gary recalls seeing the play on Broadway with James Earl Jones and Christopher Plummer. Talk about star power!
Kiss of Death
Martha Wright, Broadway Actress, who took over for Mary Martin in two iconic roles of the American Musical Theatre - Nellie Forbush in South Pacific and Maria Rainer in The Sound of Music. Though never a star like Martin, Ms. Wright by all accounts acquitted herself brilliantly in her portrayals. She performed Forbush more than 1,000 times on Broadway, closing the show in January 1954. Ms. Wright was 92. read full obit
This is Booth One’s second Easter holiday for Gary and Roscoe, having just passed the first anniversary of our podcast. Ross reprises his hilarious story of appearing as a young child in a photo in the Niles Daily Sun (Michigan) searching for an Easter Egg in the bushes with his “hind-end” in focus. We appeal to our Booth One podcast nation for a copy of this priceless photo. Happy hunting! And when in Chicago, don’t forget to visit The Fudge Pot chocolate store in Old Town to satisfy your sweet tooth! visit their site

Gary talks about his beloved mother Dolores’s favorite Polish Easter traditions, gathering around pierogi, kielbasa and lamb cake — the art of lively conversation flourishing. Our Waspy producer had to get used to the volume. For Poles, Easter is the holiest day of the year. Read more about the food here.

Update on the presidential race: As the GOP may soon meet it’s death in the general election, Gary suggests the GOP symbol elephant might go to the amazing Elephant Sanctuary in Hohenwald, Tennessee. This 2700 acre retirement home is filled with features of their natural habitats and is closed to the public. How cool is that? For educational and observational purposes, there are 14 solar-powered “elecams”. We love everything about this. Check out the details here!Speaking of lame elephants, Donald Trump. Here’s something: One of Trump’s first business ventures out of college was backing a Broadway show called Paris is Out by Richard Seff in 1970. The show ran for 96 performances at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre. Would that his campaign closes as quickly. Details in this great NYT story.

LEARN MORE about Gary Z and Roscoe when they play Chat Pack, our favorite game. We aspire to write our own Chat Pack for the show. If you have ideas for questions, please send them in.

This week the Broadway chat boards were alive with controversy and invective as actress Patti Murin rebutted some snarky comments that cropped up on BroadwayWorld.com. web site Not only did they vilify the musical Nerds! she was working on that just got shut down in rehearsals for lack of funding, but some

comments go right after the talent of the actors. Her responses are witty and priceless and should lead to more oversight of these chat boards in the future. read more

Find out how Roscoe learned his lesson in writing on the chat boards in his story about actress Irene Dailey. read bio

Looking for that perfectly “little” cute place in the Village or Little Italy? Well, look no further than Mr. Donahue’s, a 9-seat restaurant serving hearty meals in a tiny space. go to website No reservations, first come only. Better bring a book. And an umbrella. And find out more about Columbia University student Jonah Reider who opened a restaurant in his dorm room to raise a little extra cash. He’s gotten more than he bargained for! read more here

Gary and Roscoe recount their Booth One experience attending Chicago Shakespeare Theatre‘s new production of Othello. As new press list members, we received the royal treatment. Gary recalls seeing the play on Broadway with James Earl Jones and Christopher Plummer. Talk about star power!

Kiss of Death

Martha Wright, Broadway Actress, who took over for Mary Martin in two iconic roles of the American Musical Theatre – Nellie Forbush in South Pacific and Maria Rainer in The Sound of Music. Though never a star like Martin, Ms. Wright by all accounts acquitted herself brilliantly in her portrayals. She performed Forbush more than 1,000 times on Broadway, closing the show in January 1954. Ms. Wright was 92. read full obit

]]>This is Booth One's second Easter holiday for Gary and Roscoe, having just passed the first anniversary of our podcast. Ross reprises his hilarious story of appearing as a young child in a photo in the Niles Daily Sun (Michigan) searching for an Easte...visit their site

Gary talks about his beloved mother Dolores's favorite Polish Easter traditions, gathering around pierogi, kielbasa and lamb cake -- the art of lively conversation flourishing. Our Waspy producer had to get used to the volume. For Poles, Easter is the holiest day of the year. Read more about the food here.

Update on the presidential race: As the GOP may soon meet it's death in the general election, Gary suggests the GOP symbol elephant might go to the amazing Elephant Sanctuary in Hohenwald, Tennessee. This 2700 acre retirement home is filled with features of their natural habitats and is closed to the public. How cool is that? For educational and observational purposes, there are 14 solar-powered "elecams". We love everything about this. Check out the details here!Speaking of lame elephants, Donald Trump. Here's something: One of Trump's first business ventures out of college was backing a Broadway show called Paris is Out by Richard Seff in 1970. The show ran for 96 performances at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre. Would that his campaign closes as quickly. Details in this great NYT story.

LEARN MORE about Gary Z and Roscoe when they play Chat Pack, our favorite game. We aspire to write our own Chat Pack for the show. If you have ideas for questions, please send them in.

This week the Broadway chat boards were alive with controversy and invective as actress Patti Murin rebutted some snarky comments that cropped up on BroadwayWorld.com. web site Not only did they vilify the musical Nerds! she was working on that just got shut down in rehearsals for lack of funding, but some

comments go right after the talent of the actors. Her responses are witty and priceless and should lead to more oversight of these chat boards in the future. read more

Find out how Roscoe learned his lesson in writing on the chat boards in his story about actress Irene Dailey. read bio

Looking for that perfectly "little" cute place in the Village or Little Italy? Well, look no further than Mr. Donahue's, a 9-seat restaurant serving hearty meals in a tiny space. go to website No reservations, first come only. Better bring a book. And an umbrella. And find out more about Columbia University student Jonah Reider who opened a restaurant in his dorm room to raise a little extra cash. He's gotten more than he bargained for! read more here

Gary and Roscoe recount their Booth One experience attending Chicago Shakespeare Theatre's new production of Othello. As new press list members,]]>Gary Zabinski, Frank Tourangeau61:22Hail to the Secret Lives of Objects – Episode 28https://booth-one.com/2016/03/hail-to-the-secret-lives-of-objects-episode-28/
Mon, 14 Mar 2016 02:21:24 +0000https://booth-one.com/?p=1171Gary and Roscoe share two astounding Booth One experiences, both figuratively and literally, on this week's episode.
But first, Gary profiles the free diver who claims he hypnotized a shark in order to remove a fishing hook caught in its mouth. Talk about a fish tale. Read how to hypnotize a shark!We're not sure we believe this entire story, but if it's true, there's hope for curing Gary's phobia. Maybe.
Roscoe gets surprising news that one of his lifelong idols, famed actress and chanteuse Barbara Cook, will be appearing off-Broadway in May in a one-woman show based on her autobiography. Read details about the show here. After picking his jaw up off the floor, Roscoe vows to see her for perhaps the 100th time. Stay tuned for a possible interview opportunity at a later date.
Booth One Experience #1 - We had the great privilege of being escorted on a tour of the West Wing of the White House by friend and staff member Bess Evans! She told us the best stories. A truly remarkable and awe-inspiring evening.
Thanks to Bess, our group was able to tour the inner offices, stand in the Rose Garden, view the Cabinet Room and the Oval Office, take photos in the Press Briefing Room, and walk through the Eisenhower Executive Office Building. An experience not to be missed if you ever have the opportunity. No matter who's running the place!
Big thanks to friend of the show, Sandeep Ghaey (who runs a beautiful wine store called Vinic in our home town) for tipping us off to a great exhibit and leading us to Booth One Experience #2:
We were given an insider tour of the current exhibit at the Chicago History Museum, The Secret Lives of Objects - Objects extraordinary and unfamiliar from the Museum's protected vaults tell their tales and shine a light on their mysterious pasts. One thing all the items in The Secret Lives of Objects have in common is that they serve as touchstones to Chicago's rich history; tangible evidence of its glorious, surprising, and infamous past. get more info about this wonderful exhibit here.
Our guides for this amazing opportunity were John Russick, co-curator of the exhibit, and Petra Slinkard, the museum's Curator of Costumes.
The highlight for Roscoe and Gary was the BOOTH ONE display, consisting of the original three-sided seating booth and the center table from the old Ambassador East Hotel (now the Public). Site of many a celebrity gathering over the years. Thrilling to behold! Shout out to listener and friend of the show, Sandeep Ghaey, for the sighting of the original Booth One!
Here's a visual representation of the rest of our audio tour which we hope does justice to the remarkable collection of objects:
Kiss Of Death - Dick Bradsell, Connoisseur of Cocktails. A career bartender who was considered the father of the cocktail revival that took root in London in the 1990s and continues to flourish today. His influence was felt throughout Britain, America and as far flung as Australia. A number of his concoctions became modern classics, such as the bramble (gin, lemon juice, sugar and blackberry liqueur) and the vodka espresso, or espresso martini (vodka, coffee liqueur and fresh espresso). He had a quirky character and a clipped, querulous way of speaking. Mr. Bradsell was 56. NYT obitGary and Roscoe share two astounding Booth One experiences, both figuratively and literally, on this week’s episode.

But first, Gary profiles the free diver who claims he hypnotized a shark in order to remove a fishing hook caught in its mouth. Talk about a fish tale. Read how to hypnotize a shark!We’re not sure we believe this entire story, but if it’s true, there’s hope for curing Gary’s phobia. Maybe.

Roscoe gets surprising news that one of his lifelong idols, famed actress and chanteuse Barbara Cook, will be appearing off-Broadway in May in a one-woman show based on her autobiography. Read details about the show here. After picking his jaw up off the floor, Roscoe vows to see her for perhaps the 100th time. Stay tuned for a possible interview opportunity at a later date.

Booth One Experience #1 – We had the great privilege of being escorted on a tour of the West Wing of the White House by friend and staff member Bess Evans! She told us the best stories. A truly remarkable and awe-inspiring evening.

Thanks to Bess, our group was able to tour the inner offices, stand in the Rose Garden, view the Cabinet Room and the Oval Office, take photos in the Press Briefing Room, and walk through the Eisenhower Executive Office Building. An experience not to be missed if you ever have the opportunity. No matter who’s running the place!

Big thanks to friend of the show, Sandeep Ghaey (who runs a beautiful wine store called Vinic in our home town) for tipping us off to a great exhibit and leading us to Booth One Experience #2:

We were given an insider tour of the current exhibit at the Chicago History Museum, The Secret Lives of Objects – Objects extraordinary and unfamiliar from the Museum’s protected vaults tell their tales and shine a light on their mysterious pasts. One thing all the items in The Secret Lives of Objects have in common is that they serve as touchstones to Chicago’s rich history; tangible evidence of its glorious, surprising, and infamous past. get more info about this wonderful exhibit here.

Our guides for this amazing opportunity were John Russick, co-curator of the exhibit, and Petra Slinkard, the museum’s Curator of Costumes.

The highlight for Roscoe and Gary was the BOOTH ONE display, consisting of the original three-sided seating booth and the center table from the old Ambassador East Hotel (now the Public). Site of many a celebrity gathering over the years. Thrilling to behold! Shout out to listener and friend of the show, Sandeep Ghaey, for the sighting of the original Booth One!

Here’s a visual representation of the rest of our audio tour which we hope does justice to the remarkable collection of objects:

Kiss Of Death – Dick Bradsell, Connoisseur of Cocktails. A career bartender who was considered the father of the cocktail revival that took root in London in the 1990s and continues to flourish today. His influence was felt throughout Britain, America and as far flung as Australia. A number of his concoctions became modern classics, such as the bramble (gin, lemon juice, sugar and blackberry liqueur) and the vodka espresso, or espresso martini (vodka, coffee liqueur and fresh espresso). He had a quirky character and a clipped, querulous way of speaking. Mr. Bradsell was 56. NYT obit

]]>Gary and Roscoe share two astounding Booth One experiences, both figuratively and literally, on this week's episode. - But first, Gary profiles the free diver who claims he hypnotized a shark in order to remove a fishing hook caught in its mouth.